Rwanda and Belgium Have Expelled Each Other’s Diplomats Amid Escalating Tensions

Rwanda and Belgium Have Expelled Each Other’s Diplomats Amid Escalating Tensions

LN24 / 22 minutes

March 17, 2025

1 min read

Rwanda and Belgium have expelled each other’s diplomats amid escalating tensions over their involvement in the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Rwanda announced it was cutting diplomatic ties with Belgium, giving its diplomats 48 hours to leave, accusing Brussels of spreading falsehoods and manipulating public opinion to create an unjustified negative view of Rwanda. In response, Belgium’s foreign affairs minister, Maxime Prevot, called the decision “disproportionate,” adding that it showed Rwanda’s reluctance to engage in dialogue when disagreements arise. Belgium will respond by declaring Rwandan diplomats persona non grata. Meanwhile, African leaders continue efforts to broker a lasting ceasefire in Congo, where Rwanda is accused of supporting the M23 rebels in the eastern region.