Tensions Escalate Over Congo Conflict as Kigali Accuses Belgium of Undermining Its Sovereignty
In a dramatic turn of events, Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic ties with Belgium and other European nations, issuing a 48-hour ultimatum for all European diplomats to vacate the country immediately.
The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced the decision in an official statement on Monday, March 17, 2025, citing Belgium’s consistent interference in Rwanda’s affairs, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Rwanda Accuses Belgium of Meddling in Congo Crisis
According to the statement, Kigali accused Belgium of undermining Rwanda’s role in regional stability, particularly in relation to the escalating conflict in the DRC, where tensions between Rwanda and the Congolese government have been steadily rising.
“The Government of Rwanda today notified the Government of Belgium of its decision to sever diplomatic relations, effective immediately,” the statement read.
Belgium Declares Rwandan Diplomats Persona Non Grata
In retaliation, Belgium announced that Rwandan diplomats are no longer welcome on Belgian soil, further escalating the diplomatic row between the two nations.
Belgium’s Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, expressed regret over Kigali’s decision, stating that it demonstrated Rwanda’s unwillingness to engage in dialogue over diplomatic disagreements.
Posting on X (formerly Twitter), Prevot wrote:
“Belgium regrets the decision of Rwanda to cut off diplomatic relations with Belgium and to declare Belgium’s diplomats persona non grata.
“This is disproportionate and shows that when we disagree with Rwanda, they prefer not to engage in dialogue.”
Rwanda-Belgium Relations: A History of Strained Ties
The relationship between Rwanda and Belgium has been tense for decades, dating back to Belgium’s colonial rule over Rwanda before the country gained independence in 1962.
In recent years, tensions have resurfaced over political, economic, and security issues, particularly regarding Rwanda’s alleged involvement in supporting rebel groups in eastern DRC, a claim that Kigali has strongly denied.
Belgium has been vocal in criticizing Rwanda’s role in the Congo conflict, calling for international scrutiny over Kigali’s actions.
In response, Rwandan President Paul Kagame has accused Belgium and other Western nations of double standards in their approach to African affairs.
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Impact of the Diplomatic Fallout
The sudden break in diplomatic relations raises several concerns:
- Political Isolation: Rwanda risks further isolation from European nations, which could impact trade and diplomatic cooperation.
- Economic Consequences: Belgium has been a major trade and development partner for Rwanda. Cutting ties may affect foreign investments and aid.
- Regional Instability: With escalating tensions in the DRC, the diplomatic fallout could further complicate peace efforts in the region.
What Comes Next?
With Rwanda expelling European diplomats and Belgium ordering Rwandan officials to leave, the situation is expected to have wider geopolitical ramifications.
It remains to be seen whether Rwanda and Belgium will seek mediation through international bodies such as the African Union (AU) or the United Nations (UN), or whether the fallout will further polarize diplomatic relations between Rwanda and Europe.
For now, European diplomats in Kigali have been given less than two days to pack their bags and leave—a move that signals a major diplomatic crisis in the region.
