Rwanda faces fresh challenge as Germany halts financial aid over DRC conflict

The German government has announced restrictions on its financial aid to Rwanda in response to the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

This decision follows growing international calls for de-escalation as the M23 rebel group continues its offensive into Congolese territory.

In a statement from Germany’s Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development, Berlin reaffirmed its stance, aligning with the European Union (EU) and the United Nations Security Council’s Resolution 2773.

The statement condemned Rwanda’s support for M23 and the involvement of the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF), citing violations of ceasefire agreements under the Luanda Process and infringements on DRC’s territorial integrity.

The German government reiterated its backing for African-led mediation efforts, emphasizing the need for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Germany’s position

Germany said it will restrict its bilateral cooperation with Rwanda, citing concerns over the country’s actions in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Rwanda’s President, Paul Kagame has repeatedly denied supporting M23

Specifically, Germany will suspend new financial commitments, review existing development cooperation projects, and suspend high-level participation in development events organized by Rwanda.

“When communicating this decision, in accordance with the position taken by the European Union the familiar expectations towards the Rwandan side were reiterated, in particular the calls for withdrawal of Rwanda Defence Forces and for support given to the M23 to cease” the statement added.

Germany informed Rwanda of this decision in advance and is also engaging with the Congolese government to address these concerns.

Rwanda’s increasing sanctions

As the situation in eastern DRC continues to deteriorate, international pressure on Rwandan President Paul Kagame is mounting.

While Rwanda has repeatedly denied supporting M23, the latest round of sanctions signals a growing consensus among Western nations that stronger measures are needed to curb Kigali’s alleged involvement.

Germany has become the latest country to take punitive action against Rwanda, joining the European Union and the UN Security Council in condemning Rwanda’s involvement in eastern DRC.

Britain has also taken a firm stance against Rwanda, threatening to withdraw over $1 billion in annual aid over Kigali’s alleged support for M23. British Foreign Minister David Lammy condemned the violation of DRC’s territorial integrity, stressing that such actions cannot be tolerated.

As part of its immediate response, the UK has put £32 million ($39.8 million) in aid at risk, pending further review.

In addition to financial penalties, Britain has imposed diplomatic sanctions on Rwanda, including ending high-level attendance at Rwandan government events, restricting trade promotion, and reassessing defence training assistance and export licenses for Rwanda’s military.

With economic and diplomatic consequences escalating, the effectiveness of these punitive actions in compelling Rwanda to change its stance remains uncertain.

The coming months will be crucial in determining whether these measures will lead to a de-escalation of violence or further entrench the conflict in the Great Lakes region.