Rwanda has severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, citing neocolonial attitudes regarding the conflict in the DRC. This decision reflects ongoing tensions rooted in their colonial past and current geopolitical conflicts. An official response from Belgium is still awaited, indicating that reconciliation may be challenging.
Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic relations with Belgium as of March 17, 2025, due to tensions related to the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Rwandan government has criticized Belgium for adhering to what it describes as “neocolonial illusions” in the context of this crisis. The M23 rebel group’s seizure of significant territories in eastern DRC has intensified the situation, leading to Kigali’s strong denunciation of Brussels’ stance on the matter. This decisive action represents a significant deterioration in the already strained relationship between Rwanda and Belgium, rooted in a complex history of colonialism and post-independence strife. An official response from Brussels has yet to be released; however, it is anticipated that mending this diplomatic rift will prove challenging.
The diplomatic split between Rwanda and Belgium marks a critical moment in their historical relations, particularly concerning the ongoing crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwanda’s accusations against Belgium highlight underlying tensions about colonial legacies and current political alignments. As both nations navigate this complex scenario, the prospect of reconciliation appears fraught with difficulty.
Original Source: euroweeklynews.com