Rwanda has abruptly ended diplomatic relations with Belgium, issuing a 48-hour ultimatum for all Belgian diplomats to exit the country. The move, announced on Monday, marks a sharp escalation in tensions between the two nations.
In an official statement, Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Belgium of repeatedly undermining Rwanda amid its ongoing conflict with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). “The Government of Rwanda today notified the Government of Belgium of its decision to sever diplomatic relations, effective immediately,” the ministry declared.
Belgium’s Foreign Minister, Maxime Prevot, expressed dismay at the decision, labeling it “disproportionate.” In a post on X, Prevot stated, “Belgium regrets Rwanda’s choice to terminate diplomatic ties and declare our diplomats persona non grata. This reaction is excessive and suggests Rwanda opts to avoid dialogue when faced with differing views.” He added that Rwandan diplomats are now also unwelcome in Belgium, signaling a reciprocal breakdown in relations.
The rupture stems from Rwandan President Paul Kagame’s claims that Belgium has pushed for international sanctions against Rwanda over its alleged role in the DRC conflict. The M23 rebel group, widely believed to be supported by Rwanda, has intensified its campaign in eastern DRC this year, seizing strategic cities. A UN report alleges that Rwanda exerts control over M23 and has stationed around 4,000 troops in the region—claims that Kigali firmly rejects. Rwanda, in turn, asserts it is responding to security threats posed by Hutu militants based in the DRC.
Congolese officials report that the violence has claimed at least 7,000 lives, prompting urgent calls for international action. The diplomatic clash coincides with preparations for peace talks between the DRC government and M23 rebels, set to begin Tuesday in Angola.
As tensions rise, the fallout between Rwanda and Belgium threatens to complicate efforts to resolve the worsening crisis in the region.
