The UK government will soon introduce sanctions against Rwanda over its alleged involvement in the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), a Foreign Office ministerconfirmed on Monday.
Speaking to Reuters at a U.N. Human Rights Council meeting in Geneva, Ray Collins, the UK’s junior minister for Africa policy, stated that the sanctions would be imposed “soon”.
“The UK has made its position clear to Rwanda and will act soon,” Collins said, signaling a firm stance against Kigali’s alleged support for the M23 rebel group.
Rwanda Under Global Scrutiny for Role in Congo Crisis
Rwanda is facing growing international pressure over accusations that it backs M23 rebels, who have seized large areas of eastern Congo since January 2024. The rebels have taken control of key cities like Goma and Bukavu, along with strategic mineral-rich regions.
The Rwandan government denies supporting M23 but claims its troops are acting in self-defenseagainst hostile armed groups based in eastern Congo.
U.S. Treasury Already Imposes Sanctions on Rwandan Official
The UK’s upcoming sanctions follow similar action by the United States. Last Thursday, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned James Kabarebe, a high-profile Rwandan military official and close ally of President Paul Kagame.
The U.S. accused Kabarebe of serving as a liaison between the Rwandan government and M23 rebels. In response, Rwanda dismissed the sanctions as unjustified, further straining its diplomatic ties with the West.
International Pressure Mounts on Rwanda
With both the U.S. and UK taking action, Rwanda faces increasing diplomatic and economic pressure over its alleged role in the Congo conflict. The situation remains tense as Western nations seek to hold Kigali accountable, while Rwanda continues to reject allegations of involvement.
The UK government has not yet disclosed specific details of the upcoming sanctions, but the move is expected to further escalate tensions in the region.
