Rwanda accuses DRC of supporting armed group on its soil

Kigali reiterated that the presence of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to pose a security threat that justifies Rwanda’s ongoing military involvement in the region. The statement was made as a joint verification mission, led by the United Nations and the African Union, reported measurable progress in confirming the terms of a ceasefire agreement signed earlier this year between the DRC government and rebel groups.

Rwanda’s defence ministry highlighted recent incursions by the FDLR, which it describes as a hostile militia composed largely of Rwandan refugees, and cited cross‑border attacks on Rwandan‑supported communities as evidence of the group’s destabilising activities. The verification team, operating from Goma and other forward bases, has documented a reduction in active hostilities and the establishment of monitoring posts along key transit routes, while the DRC authorities have welcomed the findings but stressed the need for sustained security guarantees. Both sides affirmed that continued cooperation will be essential to prevent a resurgence of violence and to address the underlying humanitarian concerns.

The advance in ceasefire verification underscores a tentative de‑escalation in a volatile sector, yet Rwanda’s insistence on a legitimate security rationale signals that its troops may remain active until the FDLR threat is fully neutralised. International observers will monitor the situation closely, with further assessments expected in the coming weeks to determine whether the ceasefire can be fully institutionalised and whether foreign forces will eventually withdraw.