According to recent reports by different media houses, Rwanda has officially cut diplomatic ties with Belgium, ordering all Belgian diplomats to leave the country within 48 hours. This move, announced on March 17, 2025, marks a serious escalation in tensions between the two countries over political and regional disputes.
The decision follows growing friction, with Rwanda accusing Belgium of interfering in its internal affairs and undermining its sovereignty. Kigali has repeatedly expressed frustration with what it sees as Brussels’ attempts to dictate its policies and international relations.
The Rwandan government’s announcement came in a strongly worded statement from its Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
It condemned Belgium for what it described as “continuous interference and unfounded accusations.” The latest dispute is tied to Belgium’s criticism of Rwanda’s alleged support for the M23 rebel group operating in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
Kigali has denied these claims, accusing Belgium of spreading misinformation and trying to isolate Rwanda diplomatically.
Belgium, on the other hand, has remained vocal about its concerns over Rwanda’s role in the ongoing instability in the region.
Belgium responded swiftly to Rwanda’s decision, calling it regrettable and unjustified. Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot condemned the expulsion of diplomats, saying it showed Rwanda’s unwillingness to engage in open and constructive dialogue.
In retaliation, Belgium also declared Rwandan diplomats persona non grata, deepening the crisis. The diplomatic fallout could have far-reaching consequences, particularly for trade and international cooperation between the two nations.
The tensions between Rwanda and Belgium have been simmering for months. Rwanda previously suspended its bilateral aid program with Belgium, accusing Brussels of using development assistance as a political tool.
Kigali claimed that Belgium was actively working against Rwanda’s access to international funding, putting pressure on financial institutions to limit cooperation with the Rwandan government.
These accusations fueled resentment and set the stage for the current diplomatic breakdown.The conflict between Rwanda and Belgium also has historical roots. Belgium was Rwanda’s colonial ruler before the country gained independence in 1962.
Over the years, Rwanda has accused Belgium of fueling ethnic divisions that contributed to past conflicts, including the 1994 genocide.
The strained relationship has periodically surfaced in diplomatic exchanges, but this latest escalation is one of the most serious in recent history.
The decision to sever ties raises questions about its impact on regional stability, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
With international efforts ongoing to resolve the armed conflict in eastern DRC, the loss of diplomatic communication between Rwanda and Belgium could complicate peace negotiations.
Rwanda has been a key player in regional security discussions, and Belgium’s role as a European power involved in African affairs means that this rift could disrupt broader diplomatic efforts.
Observers are watching closely to see if there will be any attempts to de-escalate the situation through diplomatic backchannels. So far, both sides have taken firm positions, making reconciliation difficult in the short term.
The coming days will reveal whether this is a temporary fallout or the beginning of a prolonged diplomatic freeze with wider implications.
Leave feedback about this