Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated he is uncertain about the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC amidst escalating violence involving the M23 rebel group. Kagame emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to national security, categorizing the FDLR as a severe threat. He rejected comparisons to Putin’s actions in Ukraine, insisting that Rwanda must prioritize its defense independent of international intervention.
In an interview with CNN, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), amidst ongoing violence between the M23 rebel group and Congolese forces that has claimed over 700 lives. International speculation suggests that Rwanda supports the M23, who recently announced their capture of the city of Goma. Reports from UN experts estimate that between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan soldiers are active in support of M23 fighters in the region.
When questioned about Rwandan military involvement, President Kagame stated, “I don’t know” if troops were present, highlighting his role as the commander-in-chief yet reiterating the complexity of the situation. He acknowledged the security threats posed by issues in the DRC, asserting that Rwanda’s self-defense is paramount. Kagame said, “There are many things I don’t know… But if you want to ask me, is there a problem in Congo that concerns Rwanda? … I’d say 100%.”
Kagame characterized the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a significant foreign armed group within the DRC, as an “existential threat” to Rwanda, alleging their integration into Congolese military ranks and implicating regional support for the group. In his statements, he emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty without relying on external entities.
Addressing comparisons made between him and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has been accused of supporting separatist movements in Ukraine, Kagame remarked that such narratives are beyond his control, saying, “There will be so many stories. … We have to do what we have to do… we have to make sure we survive any storm that blows across our country.”
When pressed on the potential dispatch of troops, Kagame reiterated Rwanda’s resolve, asserting, “Nobody, including the United Nations or the international community… is going to do it for us.” He advised the interviewer to interpret his words as he deemed fit regarding military actions in the DRC.
Overall, Kagame’s comments illuminate the complex security landscape surrounding Rwanda and its potential involvement in the DRC, and underscore the concern for national safety amidst regional tensions.
The conflict in eastern Congo, particularly involving the M23 armed group, has escalated recently, resulting in significant casualties. The international community has been scrutinizing Rwanda’s role, suspecting it of supplying support to the M23, a claim that underscores the tensions between Rwanda and its neighbors. In this context, questions about Rwanda’s military presence in the DRC are critical, highlighting broader regional security issues and Rwanda’s military strategy.
President Kagame’s statements reveal his administration’s position on the security dynamics between Rwanda and the DRC. Despite expressing uncertainty about troop deployment, he reaffirmed Rwanda’s sovereign responsibility for its defense. The remarks illustrate the complicated interplay of regional politics, national security, and external perceptions of Rwanda’s military actions, particularly regarding the M23 conflict in eastern Congo.
Original Source: edition.cnn.com
