Kagame Denies Rwandan Troop Presence in DRC Amidst Ongoing Violence

Rwandan President Kagame denies knowledge of troops in DRC amidst violence. International bodies estimate Rwandan military support for M23 rebels, while DRC officials claim documented military presence. Kagame asserts the need for self-defense against regional threats, including the FDLR, as fighting escalates with significant casualties.

In a recent interview with CNN, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). He stated, “I don’t know,” when asked if any Rwandan soldiers were operating in the eastern part of the country, where nearly 900 people have been killed amid fighting involving the M23 armed group. The ongoing violence has escalated concerns that Rwanda is indirectly backing these rebels, especially since the M23 claimed control over the city of Goma last week.

International observers, including United Nations officials, estimate that between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan soldiers may be assisting M23 fighters in DRC, reportedly outnumbering the rebels themselves. As Kagame discussed the situation, he emphasized Rwanda’s right to protect itself, saying, “if you want to ask me, is there a problem in Congo that concerns Rwanda? And that Rwanda would do anything to protect itself? I’d say 100%.”

The UN’s Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs indicated that at least 900 bodies have been retrieved from Goma since the outbreak of violence. This figure underscores the severity of the situation, and humanitarian aid continues to be affected by the unrest. Meanwhile, M23 spokesperson Victor Tesongo denied any support from Rwanda, accusing attempts to suggest such support as a manipulation of public opinion.

Meanwhile, DRC’s communications minister, Patrick Muyaya, dismissed Kagame’s claims of ignorance regarding Rwandan troops’ presence. He confidently asserted, “Kagame is the only voice denying this… the overwhelming international consensus leaves no doubt.” Several authoritative bodies, including the UN Group of Experts and the Security Council, have confirmed Rwanda’s military activities in eastern DRC.

Kagame found himself likened to Russian President Vladimir Putin during the interview, given the comparison to his support for separatist movements. His response was rather stoic: “There will be so many stories… I may be called anything – what can I do about it?” He maintained that Rwanda must ensure its survival against any threats, especially in regard to the DRC’s Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), which he described as an “existential threat.”

Despite questions looming over troop deployments, Kagame maintained that Rwanda would do “whatever it takes” to safeguard its interests. His remarks implied a readiness to act independently, stating, “Nobody, including the United Nations or the international community, is going to do it for us.”

The conflict has intensified following M23’s recent advances into Goma, with shells reportedly causing casualties even within Rwanda. In response, Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi has promised a “vigorous and coordinated response” against M23, labeling the group as a puppet of Kagame. Additionally, M23 has declared intentions to expand their reach beyond Goma and even aim for the national capital, Kinshasa.

As fighting continues to escalate, the complex interplay of regional politics and military action keeps the situation in flux, with great implications for the future of both Rwanda and the DRC.

The situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo remains dire, with President Paul Kagame indicating uncertainty regarding Rwandan troop presence amidst international scrutiny. Both the M23 group and Rwanda deny mutual involvement, yet accusations persist. As violence escalates and significant civilian casualties mount, the response from both Congolese authorities and Rwandan leadership will likely shape the future dynamics of this fraught relationship. The stakes are high, with regional security hanging in the balance.

Original Source: www.cnn.com