Germany has suspended new development aid to Rwanda, joining the United Kingdom in pressuring President Paul Kagame’s government over allegations that it is backing the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The German development ministry confirmed the decision on Tuesday, stating that it is also reassessing existing commitments.
“In coordination with partners, Germany will further restrict bilateral cooperation with Rwanda,” the ministry said. Berlin also confirmed that Rwanda had been informed in advance and was urged to withdraw its alleged support for M23, which has been expanding its control in eastern Congo.
Germany had last pledged €93.6 million ($98 million) in aid to Rwanda for the 2022-2024 period, according to the ministry. The decision to halt new assistance follows increasing international scrutiny over Rwanda’s role in the ongoing conflict.
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For months, the Congolese government, United Nations experts, and several Western nations have accused Rwanda of aiding M23, a rebel group that has seized large swathes of territory and key mineral-rich areas in eastern DRC.
Rwanda, however, has consistently denied these claims, arguing that its actions are driven by national security concerns. The Rwandan government insists that it is protecting its borders from ethnic Hutu-led militias operating in Congo, which it says pose a direct threat to Rwanda and its Tutsi population.
Germany’s decision comes just weeks after the UK froze aid and defence cooperation with Rwanda for similar reasons. The growing international pressure signals mounting diplomatic consequences for Kagame’s government, as Western nations seek to curb Rwanda’s alleged involvement in the destabilization of eastern Congo.
