Kagame Expels Belgian Diplomats as Rwanda Severs Diplomatic Relations

According to an official statement, Belgian diplomats in Rwanda have been given 48 hours to leave the country. The move follows a series of escalating tensions between the two nations, particularly concerning Belgium's stance on the ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

President Kagame’s Warning to Belgium

The diplomatic fallout came just a day after President Paul Kagame publicly criticized Belgium during a meeting with residents of Kigali City on March 16, 2025. Kagame delivered a sharp rebuke against Rwanda’s former colonial power, accusing Belgium of continuing to meddle in the country’s affairs.

"One of the problems we have is that we were colonized by a small country like Belgium. Worse still, they decided to divide Rwanda, making it as small as themselves. That is Belgium, and I am warning them today," Kagame declared.

The Rwandan president's comments reflect long-standing grievances over Belgium’s role in shaping Rwanda’s post-colonial history, including the ethnic divisions that contributed to past conflicts.

Political Disagreement Over the DRC Conflict

The diplomatic crisis comes on the heels of Rwanda’s decision to halt all cooperation agreements with Belgium, following Brussels’ decision to side with the Congolese government in the ongoing DRC conflict.

Belgium has been vocal in criticizing Rwanda's alleged involvement in supporting the M23 rebel group, an accusation Kigali has repeatedly denied. The Belgian government’s political alignment with Kinshasa appears to have been the breaking point for Rwanda, which views the move as an unwarranted interference in regional security matters.

Broader Implications

This development marks a significant shift in Rwanda’s foreign policy, as Belgium has historically been a major donor and development partner. However, Rwanda has increasingly sought to diversify its international partnerships, strengthening ties with countries such as China, Russia, and the United Arab Emirates.

The diplomatic rupture between Kigali and Brussels is likely to further strain relations between Rwanda and the European Union, where Belgium remains an influential player. It also underscores the growing geopolitical tensions in the Great Lakes region, particularly as Rwanda asserts itself as a regional power.

For now, Belgium has not officially responded to Rwanda’s decision, but analysts suggest that the fallout could have long-term economic and political consequences.

What Next?

While Rwanda’s move is a bold statement of sovereignty, the question remains: How will Belgium and the EU react? Will they push for diplomatic mediation, or will relations continue to deteriorate?

As the Great Lakes region remains on edge, this latest diplomatic standoff is a stark reminder of the enduring impact of colonial legacies and the shifting dynamics of African geopolitics.