France Condemns Rwanda: Call for Sanctions

Paris, February 15, 2025 – France has strongly condemned the latest attack by the M23 rebels in South Kivu, in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The French Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs said it is very concerned about the fighting, which is making the humanitarian crisis even worse.

The M23 rebels are backed by Rwanda, under the leadership of President Paul Kagame. Despite many warnings from the international community, Rwanda continues to support these armed groups, causing violence and suffering in the eastern DRC. France has now called for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces from Congolese land.

For many years, Rwanda has been accused of using armed groups to control parts of the DRC for its own benefit. This includes taking minerals, attacking civilians, and ignoring peace agreements. The latest attack on South Kivu comes after M23 took over the city of Goma on January 28, 2025.

Instead of following peace agreements made at the East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit on February 7-8, Rwanda continues to support M23 rebels. France has now demanded an immediate ceasefire, but Kagame’s government has ignored such calls in the past.

Rwanda has been warned many times, but nothing has changed. Kagame’s government continues to cause chaos in the DRC. France is now ready to introduce new international sanctions against those responsible for the violence. The European Union, the United Nations, and other world leaders must act as well.

Sanctions should target Rwanda’s government, military officials, and businesses that help fund the conflict. The world cannot stay silent while millions of Congolese people suffer from war and displacement. Without action, Kagame will continue to destabilize the region.

For too long, Paul Kagame has escaped punishment for his actions. He presents himself as a strong leader, but his government supports war and violence in neighboring countries. France’s statement shows that the world is losing patience with Rwanda’s actions.

It is time for tough action. The world must stand with the people of the DRC. If Kagame refuses to stop supporting war, then international sanctions must be put in place to hold him accountable.