Kagame Denies Knowledge of Rwandan Troops in DRC Amidst Ongoing Conflict

Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated he is uncertain whether Rwandan troops are in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), amidst significant fighting in the region. Reports suggest Rwandan support for the M23 rebel group, which recently claimed to have taken Goma. Kagame emphasized Rwanda’s need to protect itself against perceived threats, particularly from the FDLR, while downplaying external influences from the international community.

In an exclusive interview with CNN, Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated that he does not know if Rwandan troops are present in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where ongoing clashes have resulted in over 700 fatalities and numerous injuries. Despite being the commander-in-chief of the Rwandan Defence Force, Kagame expressed uncertainty regarding troop movements but emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to its own security.

The international community largely believes that Rwanda supports the M23 armed group, which recently proclaimed control of the city of Goma in eastern Congo. Reports from UN experts suggest that between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are overseeing M23 operations in the DRC, outpacing the rebel forces on the ground. Kagame confronted comparisons drawn between him and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who intervened militarily in eastern Ukraine in 2014, implying that such analogies are not credible.

Kagame characterized the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR)—one of the largest foreign armed factions in the DRC—as an “existential threat” to Rwanda, claiming that it is closely linked with Congolese armed forces. He asserted that regional governments might also be providing support to this group, indicating a broader geopolitical issue at play. Throughout the interview, Kagame reiterated Rwanda’s resolve to take necessary measures for self-protection, delegitimizing the United Nations or other international entities’ ability to ensure Rwanda’s safety.

When pressed about the deployment of Rwandan troops to the DRC, Kagame maintained that Rwanda will “do anything to protect itself”, hinting at significant military involvement without providing specific details. His statements reveal a clear determination to maintain national security amidst a complex and violent regional context, asserting that Rwanda must navigate its challenges independently.

Thus, Kagame’s remarks reflect Rwanda’s strategic posture regarding security in the DRC, especially in relation to armed groups threatening its stability. The uncertain involvement of Rwandan troops in the conflict raises significant implications for regional relations and security dynamics in Central Africa.

Recent conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo have heighted regional tensions, particularly with Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 armed group. This group has engaged in violent confrontations with Congolese forces, leading to a rapid escalation of military and humanitarian crises. Rwanda’s involvement, whether direct or indirect, reveals broader geopolitical interests and security concerns linked to the history of Rwandan conflict, making the region a complex arena of military and diplomatic challenges.

President Kagame’s statements highlight Rwanda’s complex security challenges in the DRC, alongside allegations of military support for rebel factions like M23. His firm declarations about national defense underscore a perceived existential threat from groups like the FDLR, pushing Rwanda to adopt a self-reliant posture in addressing its security needs. Furthermore, Kagame’s reflections on international perceptions illustrate the ongoing difficulty in navigating regional stability amidst entrenched armed conflicts.

Original Source: www.cnn.com