Rwanda and Belgium have expelled each other’s diplomats amid growing tensions over their alleged involvement in the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kigali announced it was severing diplomatic ties and ordered Belgian diplomats to leave within 48 hours, accusing Brussels of spreading “lies and manipulation” to foster hostility against Rwanda.
Belgium’s Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot condemned the decision as “disproportionate,” stating that Rwanda “prefers to cut ties rather than engage in dialogue” when challenged. In response, Brussels will expel Rwandan diplomats.
The fallout comes as African leaders push for a ceasefire in eastern Congo, where Rwanda faces accusations of backing M23 rebels in an ongoing offensive.