Belgium and Rwanda in High-Stakes Diplomatic Clash Over Eastern Congo Role

Belgium and Rwanda have expelled each other’s diplomats, marking a sharp deterioration in relations between the two countries. According to the Reuters, the expulsion comes amid escalating tensions over the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, where Rwanda is accused of backing M23 rebels. Kigali has given Belgian diplomats 48 hours to leave, accusing Brussels of “manipulating lies” to create a hostile narrative against Rwanda. 

Belgium swiftly retaliated, with Foreign Affairs Minister Maxime Prevot condemning the move as “disproportionate” and accusing Rwanda of refusing to engage in dialogue over their differences. Brussels announced it would declare Rwandan diplomats persona non grata in response.

The dispute comes at a time when African leaders are pushing for a lasting ceasefire in Congo, where violence continues to disrupt the region. Rwanda’s involvement in the conflict has raised concerns internationally, and the expulsion of diplomats is a further blow to diplomatic relations between these two nations.