Rwandan President Paul Kagame recently addressed concerns regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) amidst ongoing conflict between the M23 armed group and Congolese soldiers. The violence has resulted in the loss of over 700 lives and left thousands injured.
Despite widespread international belief that Rwanda supports the M23 rebels, President Kagame stated that he is unsure about the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC. Reports from UN experts suggest that there could be between 3,000 to 4,000 Rwandan soldiers aiding the M23 fighters, outnumbering the rebel group's forces in the country.
In an interview, Kagame emphasized that Rwanda's primary concern is protecting itself from any threats emanating from the DRC. He highlighted the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) as a significant danger to Rwanda, alleging that the group is closely linked to the Congolese armed forces and receives support from other regional governments.
When questioned about potential military intervention in the DRC, Kagame reiterated Rwanda's commitment to safeguarding its interests, stating that the country will take necessary measures to ensure its security. He emphasized that Rwanda cannot rely on external entities, including the United Nations or the international community, to protect its sovereignty.
Regarding comparisons drawn between him and Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kagame dismissed the parallels, stating that his focus remains on safeguarding Rwanda's stability amidst regional challenges. He expressed determination to weather any storms that may threaten the country's security.
In conclusion, President Kagame's remarks underscore Rwanda's firm stance on self-defense and protection against perceived threats, emphasizing the country's readiness to take decisive action to secure its borders and maintain stability in the face of regional turmoil.
