Rwanda vows to maintain border security amid Kinshasa-FDLR threat

By The Inspirer.

President Paul Kagame has reaffirmed that Rwanda’s security remains a top priority, emphasizing that defensive measures against the FDLR militia, reportedly backed by Kinshasa, will continue.

In an interview with Jeune Afrique, Kagame rejected accusations that Rwanda is responsible for the conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), stressing that the underlying causes of the crisis have persisted for more than three decades.

He characterized external criticism, including sanctions and threats, as misdirected, arguing that such measures fail to address the root issues while Rwanda works to prevent cross-border threats.

Kagame highlighted that defensive deployments along the border are necessary to protect Rwanda from potential attacks emanating from eastern DRC. He noted that while the security situation along the border has improved following the takeover of key eastern Congolese cities by the AFC/M23 rebels, challenges remain that require continued vigilance and regional cooperation.

The president reiterated that Rwanda will continue to prioritize securing its borders and protecting its citizens, warning that any threat to national security will be met with decisive measures.