Kinshasa, January 25, 2025 – The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has taken a dramatic step in its deteriorating relationship with Rwanda, recalling its diplomats from Kigali and demanding the closure of Rwanda’s embassy in Kinshasa within 48 hours.
The move follows escalating tensions over alleged Rwandan support for the M23 rebel group, which is advancing in North Kivu and threatening the strategic city of Goma.
In an official statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Francophonie, the DRC announced the immediate withdrawal of its diplomatic staff from Kigali, citing the need for Rwanda to “cease all diplomatic and consular activities of the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda in Kinshasa” within two days.
“The Democratic Republic of Congo is committed to respecting all diplomatic procedures and ensuring an orderly transition of this decision,” the statement read.
This development marks a sharp escalation in the already fraught relationship between the two neighbors.
Kinshasa has long accused Kigali of backing M23 rebels, a claim reinforced by recent reports from the UN Group of Experts.
The Rwandan government has repeatedly denied these allegations, but the DRC’s decision to sever diplomatic ties underscores the growing frustration in Kinshasa over Kigali’s perceived role in destabilizing the region.
The recall of diplomats and closure of Rwanda’s embassy come amid intense fighting between M23 and Congolese forces in North Kivu.
The conflict has displaced over 250,000 people and heightened fears of a broader regional escalation.
Battle for Goma
The DRC’s move coincides with the success of Congolese Armed Forces (FARDC), the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), and MONUSCO peacekeepers in pushing back M23 rebels near Goma after two days of intense fighting.
However, the M23 remains a potent threat, with its stated intention to seize Goma and expand its control over the region.
President Félix Tshisekedi, addressing the crisis during an emergency session of the Higher Defense Council, accused Rwanda of direct involvement in supporting the rebels.
“The President has given firm instructions to track down the forces of aggression to their last stronghold and push them far from Goma,” said FARDC spokesperson Major General Sylvain Ekenge.
International Reactions
Rwanda has not yet officially responded to the DRC’s decision, but the diplomatic fallout is expected to deepen tensions in the Great Lakes region.
The severance of ties comes amid growing international scrutiny, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres and U.S. Senator Jim Risch both condemning the M23 offensive and calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities.
The South African Defence Ministry also confirmed that nine SANDF soldiers were killed in the recent clashes near Goma while repelling M23 forces. Despite the losses, SANDF successfully pushed back the rebels and prevented them from advancing on the city.
Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict in eastern DRC has caused a massive humanitarian crisis, displacing hundreds of thousands of civilians and worsening already dire conditions in Goma.
The city remains under pressure, with international organizations warning of a looming humanitarian catastrophe if the fighting continues
