Germany to suspend new development aid to Rwanda over eastern DR Congo conflict

​​​​​​​ISTANBUL

Germany said Tuesday it will suspend new development funding to Rwanda, citing concerns about Kigali’s alleged support for the M23 rebels who are leading an offensive in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.

Berlin will “further restrict the scope of its bilateral cooperation” with Rwanda, according to a statement by the Development Ministry.

Germany plans to stop new financial commitments, reassess its current development cooperation with Kigali and suspend “high-level participation” in development cooperation events with Rwanda.

Germany’s sanctions follow measures by others including the US and the UK.

Expressing support for African-led mediation efforts, Germany condemned the allegedly Rwanda-backed M23 rebel offensive, which was a “violation” of a ceasefire based on the Luanda Process as well as Congo’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.

Berlin informed Kigali of the suspension in advance, stressing that Germany was in contact with Congolese parties about Rwanda’s security concerns.

The M23 rebel group has intensified territorial control in eastern Congo since December, recently seizing the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu.

Fighting since January has led to the deaths of more than 8,500 victims, with at least 5,700 wounded, according to Congolese Health Minister Samuel-Roger Kamba.