Rwanda and Belgium clash as diplomatic relations collapse

Rwanda has ended diplomatic relations with Belgium, ordering all Belgian diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours.

The Rwandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation announced the decision on Monday, accusing Belgium of consistently undermining Kigali amid the ongoing conflict in 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 statement read.

In response, Belgium announced that Rwandan diplomats would no longer be welcome in the country.

Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot expressed regret over Rwanda’s decision, calling it excessive.

“Belgium regrets the decision of Rwanda to cut off diplomatic relations with Belgium and to declare Belgium’s diplomats persona non grata,” Prevot said on X.

“This is disproportionate and shows that when we disagree with Rwanda, they prefer not to engage in dialogue.”

The diplomatic fallout follows accusations from Rwandan President Paul Kagame, who on Sunday claimed Belgium was pushing for international sanctions against Rwanda over the conflict in eastern DRC.

Kagame also accused Belgium of historical territorial interference, alleging that during the colonial period, Belgium carved out a large portion of Rwanda’s land and added it to Congo, making Rwanda appear as small as Belgium.

Tensions between Rwanda and Western nations have escalated in recent weeks. Earlier this month, Germany joined the US and UK in imposing sanctions on Rwanda due to its alleged involvement in the DRC conflict.

Congo and several Western countries have accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has intensified its offensive in eastern Congo since December.

However, Rwanda has denied these allegations.

M23 rebels have made significant territorial gains, seizing key locations such as Nyabiondo, northwest of Goma, and the town of Kashebere in North Kivu province after intense clashes with Congolese government forces and pro-government militias.

Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts continue as peace talks between the Congolese government and the M23 rebels, mediated by Angolan President Joao Lourenco under the African Union’s peace initiative, are scheduled for Tuesday in Angola