President Paul Kagame of Rwanda expressed uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC amidst escalating violence from the M23 group, which has claimed significant territorial gains. He reaffirmed Rwanda’s imperative to protect its national interests against perceived threats from armed groups, including the FDLR. Kagame’s comments underscore Rwanda’s assertive defense posture in the region, suggesting readiness for action while evading direct confirmation of troop deployments.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame has expressed uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite escalating violence attributed to the M23 armed group. The ongoing conflict has resulted in over 700 fatalities and numerous injuries. International observers suspect Rwanda’s support for the M23, which recently claimed control of Goma, with UN experts estimating 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers aiding the rebels in the area.
In an exclusive CNN interview, Kagame acknowledged his lack of knowledge about troop deployments while asserting Rwanda’s commitment to national security. “There are many things I don’t know. But 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%,” he stated. He further drew parallels with claims of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s support for local separatists in Ukraine.
The Rwandan leader characterized the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) as an “existential threat” to his country, alleging its integration with Congolese armed forces. Kagame expressed determination to safeguard Rwanda’s interests, stating, “Nobody, including the United Nations or the international community, is going to do it for us.” He emphasized that Rwanda would take necessary actions for self-preservation, reiterating his stance amidst speculations regarding troop involvement in the DRC.
The situation in the eastern DRC has been increasingly volatile due to the activities of armed groups, particularly the M23, which has been accused of receiving backing from Rwanda. The conflict has drawn international attention due to its humanitarian impact and the potential for regional destabilization. President Kagame’s statements reflect his administration’s stance on national security and the ongoing complexities of regional politics, particularly concerning armed groups that threaten Rwanda’s stability.
In summary, President Paul Kagame remains evasive regarding reports of Rwandan troops in the DRC while affirming Rwanda’s right to self-defense amid rising tensions from local armed groups. His assertions highlight the intricate dynamics within Central Africa and the challenges of addressing security threats that transcend national boundaries. The comments illustrate Rwanda’s proactive and somewhat confrontational approach to perceived threats, particularly from the FDLR and M23 factions.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
