Germany Suspends Aid to Rwanda Over Alleged M23 Support

Germany has halted new development aid to Rwanda and is reviewing existing financial commitments due to allegations of Rwanda's support for the M23 rebel group in eastern Congo. The German development ministry condemned the M23's offensive, particularly the capture of Goma and Bukavu, as a violation of the DRC's sovereignty. This decision follows similar actions by the United Kingdom and Canada, escalating international pressure on Rwandan President Paul Kagame. Despite the accusations from the DRC, the U.N., and Western nations, Rwanda denies involvement, asserting it is acting in self-defense against threats from Hutu-led militias. Germany's aid suspension involves approximately €93.6 million promised from 2022 to 2024, with ongoing scrutiny on Rwanda's military actions in the region. The humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict has led to over 1 million Congolese refugees across Africa, further complicating the situation.