Rwanda has announced the immediate severance of diplomatic relations with Belgium, citing what it describes as Belgium’s “neocolonial delusions” rooted in its historical role as a colonial power.

In a statement, Rwanda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs explained that the decision followed careful consideration of multiple factors, all stemming from Belgium’s ongoing attempts to perpetuate its neocolonial influence over the country.

Rwanda’s government accuses Belgium of consistently undermining Rwanda, both historically and during the current conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where Belgium has a long and violent history, particularly in its opposition to Rwanda’s interests.

Rwanda has faced accusations from several Western countries and the United Nations of directly supporting the M23 rebel group in the DRC, although Rwanda has neither confirmed nor denied these claims.

The statement also criticizes Belgium for allegedly mobilizing other nations against Rwanda, based on what Kigali calls “falsehoods.”

The diplomatic rift marks a significant escalation in tensions between the two countries.

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