Kagame Expresses Uncertainty on Rwanda’s Troops in DRC Amid Conflict

Rwandan President Paul Kagame spoke to CNN, expressing uncertainty about the presence of Rwandan troops in the DRC amid escalating violence by the M23 group. He emphasized Rwanda’s commitment to national defense against perceived threats from rebel groups, asserting that no external body would intervene on Rwanda’s behalf. Kagame’s comments reflect the complexities of regional security and the state of allegations against Rwanda regarding support for the M23 rebels.

In a recent interview with CNN, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed uncertainty regarding the presence of Rwandan troops in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), an area witnessing intense conflict involving the M23 rebel group. This turmoil has resulted in over 700 fatalities and numerous injuries amidst accusations that Rwanda supports the M23 rebels, who recently claimed control of Goma, a significant city in the region.

Kagame stated, “I don’t know” when asked about potential Rwandan military involvement, highlighting his position as commander-in-chief. Nonetheless, he acknowledged Rwanda’s interest in resolving issues in the DRC that might pose a threat to national security. He remarked, “We have to make sure we survive any storm that blows across our country.”

During the interview, Kagame dismissed comparisons made with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who was involved in the Ukraine conflict, suggesting that such analogies, while frequent, can neither be stopped nor controlled. Kagame characterized the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) as an “existential threat” to Rwanda, alleging its integration with Congolese armed forces, and indicated that the group enjoys support from other regional governments.

Kagame asserted Rwanda’s commitment to self-defense, stating, “Nobody, including the United Nations or the international community, is going to do it for us.” His avoidance of specifics regarding troop deployments to the DRC indicates a deliberate ambiguity surrounding Rwanda’s military strategy in the region, urging listeners to interpret his statements accordingly.

The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC has its roots in a complex web of historical tensions, culminating in armed confrontations involving various rebel groups, including the M23. The situation is further exacerbated by accusations of regional state involvement, particularly Rwanda’s alleged support for M23. This conflict has prompted international scrutiny and concern regarding the humanitarian implications and the potential for broader regional instability. President Kagame’s remarks, while non-committal, reflect a nuanced stance on national security and regional power dynamics.

In summary, President Kagame’s statements during the CNN interview reveal a delicate balance between acknowledging threats to Rwanda’s security and maintaining ambiguity regarding military actions in the DRC. The situation remains tense, with numerous lives affected and lasting international implications. Rwanda’s assertions of self-preservation underscore its strategic posture amid ongoing conflict, which has captured global attention.

Original Source: www.cnn.com