Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic ties with Belgium, citing continued interference in regional affairs and historical neocolonial attitudes. The Rwandan government accuses Belgium of taking sides in the ongoing Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) conflict and using misinformation to undermine Rwanda’s sovereignty.
In a strongly worded statement, Rwanda condemned Belgium’s alleged role in fueling ethnic extremism that led to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. It also accused Belgium of allowing its territory to be used by groups promoting genocide denial and anti-Rwandan sentiment. This move follows long-standing tensions over Belgium’s colonial history in Rwanda and its perceived bias in regional conflicts.
As part of the severance, all Belgian diplomats in Rwanda have been ordered to leave within 48 hours. The Rwandan government assured compliance with international protocols, stating that Belgium’s diplomatic premises and assets in Kigali will be protected under the Vienna Convention.
This marks a significant deterioration in Rwanda-Belgium relations, with potential impacts on trade, aid, and security cooperation. Belgium has yet to issue an official response, but experts predict increased tensions between Rwanda and the European Union.
With diplomatic ties now cut, Rwanda reaffirms its commitment to protecting national sovereignty and regional stability. As the situation develops, attention will be on Belgium’s response and the broader implications for EU-Africa
