Rwanda sticks to US-arbitrated peace agreement but cautions against ‘tricks’
(MENAFN) Rwandan President Paul Kagame has reaffirmed his country's commitment to a US-mediated peace agreement aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR Congo), while cautioning that Rwanda will respond strongly if the other party fails to uphold its end of the deal.
Speaking in Kigali on Friday during Rwanda’s Liberation Day celebrations, Kagame stressed that Rwanda will fulfill all obligations under the June 27 agreement, which was negotiated in Washington. However, he warned that any form of deceit or breach by the Congolese side would be met with a firm reaction.
The peace accord outlines a 90-day timeline for Rwandan troop withdrawal from eastern DR Congo, a framework for disarming and reintegrating rebel forces, and the establishment of a joint security mechanism. The deal comes amid accusations from Kinshasa that Rwanda supports the M23 rebel group, which has been active in the mineral-rich region. Kigali denies the allegations, maintaining that its military presence is solely to counter threats from Hutu militias, including the FDLR—groups with ties to the perpetrators of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide.
Kagame emphasized that Rwanda would never be the party to violate the agreement but made it clear his country would act decisively if Congo fails to neutralize the FDLR or acts in bad faith. He also praised the Trump administration for its role in facilitating the peace deal, adding that responsibility for its success lies with both Kigali and Kinshasa.
In a separate address for Rwanda’s 31st Liberation Day, Kagame criticized Western powers for threatening sanctions over Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the DR Congo conflict. He accused nations such as Belgium of meddling in African affairs under the guise of human rights while exploiting DR Congo’s mineral wealth.
Relations between Rwanda and Belgium deteriorated earlier this year, with Kigali expelling Belgian diplomats and cutting ties after accusing Brussels of neocolonial interference.
Kagame concluded by stating that those who claim Rwanda is in Congo for minerals are the same wealthy nations profiting from Congo’s natural resources.
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