Rwanda has officially severed diplomatic relations with Belgium, ordering all Belgian diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours. The announcement was made on March 17, 2025, through Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, citing Belgium’s continued “undermining of Rwandan sovereignty” and its “neocolonial interference” in African affairs.
🔹 Why Did Rwanda Cut Ties?
1️⃣ Belgium’s Alleged Political Interference – The Rwandan government accuses Belgium of working to destabilize the country, particularly regarding its stance on the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo).
2️⃣ Neocolonial Accusations – Rwanda claims Belgium has not moved past its colonial past and continues to exert undue influence over African nations.
3️⃣ Tensions Over the M23 Rebel Crisis – Belgium has been vocal in accusing Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels in DRC, allegations Rwanda has repeatedly denied.
🔹 Belgium’s Response
Belgium has retaliated by:
✅ Declaring all Rwandan diplomats persona non grata – Effectively expelling them from Belgium.
✅ Announcing plans to cut all government cooperation agreements with Rwanda.
✅ Condemning Rwanda’s decision as “disproportionate”, saying it reflects Rwanda’s unwillingness to engage in diplomatic discussions.
🔹 What This Means for the Region
The decision comes at a critical moment as African leaders attempt to mediate peace talks in the eastern DRC, where rebel groups—including M23—have intensified their offensives. Rwanda’s move is expected to further strain its relations with the European Union, which has already been divided over how to handle the Great Lakes region crisis.
🔍 What’s Next?
With diplomatic relations officially cut, questions remain:
🔸 Will other European nations follow Belgium’s lead and take action against Rwanda?
🔸 How will this impact ongoing peace talks in the DRC?
🔸 What economic or political sanctions could follow?
📢 Stay tuned for more updates on #KeleleHubNews (@kelelehubnews) as we follow this developing story.