Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame Questions Troop Presence in DRC Amid Conflict
Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated he is uncertain about the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern DRC amidst rising violence from the M23 rebel group. The international community suspects Rwandan support for M23, while Kagame emphasized Rwanda’s determination to ensure its security, labeling the FDLR as a major threat. He maintained that national defense is Rwanda’s responsibility, dismissing external intervention.
In a recent interview with CNN, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where ongoing hostilities between Congolese forces and the M23 rebel group have led to significant casualties. The international community widely suspects Rwanda of supporting the M23, which claimed to have seized Goma, a strategic city in the region. United Nations experts suggest that as many as 4,000 Rwandan soldiers may be involved in operations with M23 forces, potentially surpassing the number of rebel fighters.
When questioned about the potential deployment of Rwandan troops, President Kagame noted, “I don’t know,” although as the commander-in-chief of the Rwandan Defence Force, this statement has raised eyebrows. He acknowledged the security challenges posed by conflict in the DRC and affirmed Rwanda’s commitment to protecting its national interests, stating, “If you want to ask me, is there a problem in Congo that concerns Rwanda? … I’d say 100%.”
Kagame dismissed parallels drawn between his actions and those of Russian President Vladimir Putin with local separatist forces in Ukraine, indicating that opinions and comparisons are largely beyond his control. Concerning Rwanda’s security threats, he labeled the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) as an “existential threat,” asserting their integration within the Congolese military, and implicated broader regional governmental support for such groups.
The President insisted that Rwanda would undertake necessary measures for its defense, stating that neither the United Nations nor any other international body would fulfill this role for them. He reiterated, “Nobody … is going to do it for us,” emphasizing Rwanda’s resolve to handle its concerns independently. When prompted again on troop deployment, Kagame reaffirmed Rwanda’s stance: they will do “anything to protect itself.”
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has experienced prolonged conflict, particularly in its eastern regions where various armed groups, including the M23, operate. The M23 has been accused of having Rwandan support, leading to speculation about Rwanda’s involvement in DRC affairs. Rwanda has historically perceived threats from groups like the FDLR, which comprise elements implicated in the Rwandan genocide. International observers are closely monitoring the tensions, especially given the regional and humanitarian implications of such conflicts.
In summary, President Kagame’s comments reflect Rwanda’s defensive posture regarding threats emanating from the DRC, despite his ambiguity about direct troop involvement. His statements indicate a commitment to national security amid ongoing violence in the region. The interplay between Rwanda and the DRC remains complex, with significant implications for local and international stability.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
