Kagame Addresses Rwanda’s Role in DRC Conflict Amid Rising Tensions
Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in eastern DRC amid ongoing clashes. He stated that Rwanda would take necessary actions to ensure its security and referred to the FDLR as a significant threat. Kagame rejected claims equating him to Vladimir Putin in military involvement, emphasizing self-defense and national sovereignty.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame informed CNN that he is unsure of the presence of Rwandan military personnel in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Recent skirmishes between the M23 armed group and Congolese forces have claimed more than 700 lives and left many others injured. The international consensus suggests that Rwanda supports the M23, which recently asserted control over Goma in eastern Congo.
UN experts estimate that 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are actively assisting the M23 rebels in the DRC, surpassing the number of the rebel fighters. During an exclusive interview, Kagame responded evasively when asked about the deployment of Rwandan troops, stating, “I don’t know.” He emphasized the responsibility of Rwanda to safeguard its interests in light of the conflict in Congo.
Kagame acknowledged the accusations regarding comparisons drawn between his leadership and that of Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding military involvement and support for separatist factions. He remarked on the inevitability of varied perceptions about his leadership and reiterated Rwanda’s obligation to secure its sovereignty amidst adverse circumstances.
During the interview, Kagame referred to the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), identifying it as a significant threat to Rwanda’s survival, alleging its integration into the Congolese armed forces. He emphasized that regional support exists for such militant groups and asserted Rwanda’s commitment to self-defense.
The Rwandan leader maintained that the nation would take all necessary measures to protect itself from external threats, emphasizing, “Nobody… is going to do it for us.” He maintained an ambiguous stance on troop movements while reiterating Rwanda’s firm resolve to guarantee its security amidst the current turmoil.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has been plagued by violence due to armed groups, particularly the M23, which has gained a foothold in the eastern regions, resulting in significant casualties and escalating tensions. Rwanda’s alleged involvement has raised international concerns, drawing parallels with geopolitical conflicts where state support for rebel groups is evident. The FDLR, a Rwandan rebel group, poses a perceived existential threat, complicating the region’s security dynamics and eliciting a firm response from Kagame’s administration.
In summary, President Paul Kagame of Rwanda expressed uncertainty regarding the deployment of Rwandan troops in the DRC while affirming the nation’s commitment to defending its interests amid rising conflict. His responses highlight the complex interplay of regional conflicts that influence Rwanda’s security policy. The statements reiterate the need for self-reliance in ensuring national safety, even amidst international scrutiny.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
