UK Suspends Aid and Imposes Sanctions on Rwanda Over Congo Conflict  

The United Kingdom has suspended direct bilateral aid to Rwanda and imposed diplomatic and economic restrictions. This follows allegations that Rwanda supports the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo. The decision was announced on Tuesday, 26 February.

The UK government said the sanctions would remain until Rwanda withdrew its forces from Congolese territory and took steps to end hostilities. The measures include stopping high-level British attendance at Rwandan government events, limiting trade promotion, and suspending future defence training assistance. The UK will also review export licences for Rwanda’s military and coordinate with partners on possible new sanctions.

Rwanda rejected the UK’s actions, calling them “punitive” and unfair. The country denies supporting M23 and claims its military presence in Congo is for self-defence. Rwanda’s foreign ministry said the sanctions would not help resolve the conflict or lead to a lasting political solution.

The UK’s Foreign Secretary recently met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi. He urged them to prioritise diplomacy, warning that a military approach was unacceptable. Britain condemned M23 and Rwandan offensives, including the capture of cities like Goma and Bukavu. It called the attacks a violation of Congo’s sovereignty and a breach of the United Nations Charter. The UK also asked both countries to honour agreements made at an African-led summit on 8 February.

The conflict has worsened the humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo. Nearly a million people have been displaced, and many need urgent aid. In response, the UK announced an additional £14.6 million in humanitarian support. The government stressed that all sides must protect civilians and allow aid workers to operate freely. It warned that further escalation could lead to more decisive international action.

The UK said it would keep its policy under review and continue to press Rwanda to pull back its forces. It also urged Congo to dialogue with M23 as part of a peace process. The recent sanctions add to the growing international pressure on Rwanda.

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