The ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has reached a significant point, with the United Nations now recognizing the Rwandan army and the M23 rebel group’s roles in the occupation and looting in the country. The European Union also finally acknowledges these facts. However, many still wonder why it took so long.
Thierry Mariani, MEP, notes that this reality has been clear for some time, yet the EU has been slow to respond. He questions whether the EU’s close political ties with Rwanda have played a part in the delayed reaction. It is interesting, he points out, how the EU regularly criticizes other African nations for their democratic flaws but often praises Rwanda, where President Paul Kagame recently won an election with 99.13% of the vote.
Mariani also acknowledges that the EU is finally taking action, condemning President Kagame and implementing trade restrictions against Gazebo Gold Refinery—a company involved in the sale of looted minerals and linked to Rwanda. However, he doubts if these measures will be enough. “The message to Rwanda and President Kagame is clear: you have been exposed. If you want to restore your image, you must withdraw from the DRC,” he stated.
The M23 rebel group’s activities remain central to the issue. Mariani emphasizes that there’s no debate about the group’s terrorist affiliations and ties to the Rwandan government. However, he believes Rwanda and the M23 might still think that they could resolve the situation via negotiation. But Mariani makes it clear that sovereignty and territorial integrity are “non-negotiable.”
He also mentions the ongoing conflict, criticizing the agreement signed between the European Union and Rwanda, stating that it only fuels the conflict. Mariani further points out that the main Rwandan partner involved in this deal is now under sanctions, which he views as a positive step.
Drawing parallels with the international response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Mariani suggests that it is time for the European Union to consider sanctions against Rwanda’s leadership. “When Russia attacked Ukraine, sanctions were imposed swiftly. The same approach must be applied here,” he said. Mariani recognized that immediate sanctions might have been unwise but stressed that if the looting, occupation, and violence continue, the EU must target the main instigator—Rwanda’s President Paul Kagame.
As the European Union takes a firmer stance, the future of the conflict in Congo remains uncertain. However, the message to the EU is clear: they can no longer ignore Rwanda’s actions and their role in the ongoing instability in the DRC.
Source: http://www.africanews.com/2025/03/19/eu-acknowledges-rwandas-role-in-congo-crisis-but-action-delayed/
