Rwandan President Uncertain About Troops in DRC Amidst Conflict

Rwandan President Paul Kagame stated in a CNN interview he is uncertain about Rwandan troop involvement in the DRC, despite significant violence there. He characterized the FDLR as a major threat to Rwanda, insisting that the country must secure its own defense. Kagame’s remarks illustrate ongoing tensions and Rwanda’s commitment to self-protection amidst regional instability.

In recent remarks to CNN, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), despite his role as commander-in-chief of the Rwandan Defence Force. He acknowledged the serious conflict in the region, where over 700 individuals have died and thousands more have been injured due to clashes between the M23 armed group and Congolese forces.

Kagame emphasized the need for Rwanda to protect itself amid ongoing threats from armed groups, particularly the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), which he labeled an “existential threat”. He highlighted concerns about the FDLR being integrated into Congolese military ranks and indicated that regional governments may support this rebellion.

During the interview, Kagame responded to comparisons made between his leadership style and that of Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating, “There will be so many stories… I can’t stop people from saying whatever they want to say.” He underscored Rwanda’s resolve to navigate any challenges, asserting that the nation must ensure its own survival in the face of external pressures.

Repeatedly, Kagame affirmed that Rwanda would take necessary actions to secure its interests: “Nobody is going to do it for us.” He maintained that while the international community might speculate about Rwanda’s involvement, the country must focus on self-preservation. When directly questioned about troop deployments to the DRC, he reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to protect itself, while remaining vague about operational specifics.

The Democratic Republic of Congo has been a region of instability and conflict, particularly in its eastern part, where various armed groups operate. The M23 rebels have recently intensified their activities, capturing key locations like the city of Goma. Rwanda’s alleged support for M23 has drawn international scrutiny, with claims of Rwandan military personnel assisting the group. This situation raises concerns about regional security dynamics and the involvement of neighboring countries.

President Kagame’s statements reflect a complex situation in the DRC, with Rwanda asserting its commitment to self-defense in a turbulent environment. His comments highlight the delicate balance of regional security concerns and the challenges posed by armed groups such as the FDLR. Ultimately, Kagame’s unclear stance on troop presence points to the ongoing unrest that complicates peace efforts in the region.

Original Source: www.cnn.com