Rwanda has severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, accusing the European nation of “neo-colonial delusions” and undermining its sovereignty.
The move comes amid ongoing tensions over the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where Rwanda has been accused of backing the M23 rebel group.
Belgium, the former colonial power, has been leading calls for European nations to sanction Rwanda over its alleged support for the M23.
Rwanda has denied these claims, despite assertions from the UN and US.
The Rwandan government has given Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave the country, accusing Belgium of “systematically mobilizing against Rwanda” and attempting to “destabilize both Rwanda and the region”.
In response, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot labeled Rwanda’s decision “disproportionate” and declared Rwandan diplomats in Belgium “persona non grata,” which can lead to expulsion or withdrawal of recognition.
The conflict in the DRC has resulted in over 7,000 deaths and displaced more than 850,000 people since the beginning of the year.
The UN Security Council has demanded that the M23 end hostilities and that Rwanda withdraw its troops from the DRC.
