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This was the key message delivered by Gen. (Rtd) James Kabarebe, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Cooperation, during a meeting with EU Special Envoy for the Great Lakes region, Ambassador Johan Borgstam, in Kigali on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

The discussions, described as frank and productive, focused on Rwanda’s security concerns and the escalating tensions in eastern DRC, which recently saw the AFC/M23 rebel group capture Bukavu and Goma cities.

Kabarebe dismissed comparisons between the conflict in DRC and the war in Ukraine, calling them politically motivated and misleading. He stressed that such narratives only serve to distract from the real causes of instability in the region.

“The situation in Eastern the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is not comparable to the conflict in Ukraine. Any attempt to draw such comparisons is politically motivated and serves only to divert from the real issues at hand,” a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reads in part.

Rwanda pointed to the presence of over 200 armed groups in eastern DRC, including the FDLR, a militia composed of individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Kigali insists that the group, sanctioned by the UN and the US, remains a major threat to regional security and must be neutralised.

The Rwandan government also raised alarm over what it called an 'existential threat' at its borders, citing an international military coalition composed of the FDLR, Burundian forces, Wazalendo ethnic militias, and European mercenaries.

The minister made it clear that Rwanda expects firm security guarantees, including the withdrawal of all foreign forces near its borders and a lasting resolution to the M23 issue, which stems from decades of marginalisation and persecution of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese.

In addition, Rwanda criticised the DRC’s approach to the crisis, accusing its government of using international sanctions as a smokescreen to cover up its own governance failures, human rights violations, and corruption.

Kigali argued that punitive measures imposed on Rwanda do not contribute to peace but rather undermine African-led diplomatic efforts.

Kabarebe also took issue with what he described as the EU’s selective application of sovereignty and territorial integrity principles. He noted that Rwanda has faced multiple border violations since 2018, prompting defensive measures that will remain in place until its security concerns are fully addressed.

The meeting ended with Rwanda urging the EU to take a more constructive role in resolving the crisis, focusing on facts rather than political interests. Kigali reiterated its commitment to regional peace and called on international partners to support efforts aimed at achieving long-term stability in the Great Lakes region.

“Rwanda encourages EU member states to participate positively in regional peace efforts and avoid mixing politics in matters of peace and security,” the statement added.

The message was delivered by Gen. (Rtd) James Kabarebe, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs in Charge of Regional Cooperation, during a meeting with EU Special Envoy for the Great Lakes region, Ambassador Johan Borgstam, in Kigali on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

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On Thursday, February 27, the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Rwanda’s Ambassador in Stockholm, citing concerns over alleged Rwandan support for the M23 rebel group.

This move follows mounting international pressure in the wake of M23’s recent capture of Goma and Bukavu, key cities in the North and South Kivu provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Rwanda has consistently refuted allegations of backing M23, instead pointing to the ongoing collaboration between the Congolese army (FARDC) and the FDLR, a UN-sanctioned genocidal militia.

The Embassy emphasized that Rwanda has for decades faced existential security threats from the FDLR, which continues to launch attacks on Rwandan territory, violating its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

'The Rwanda Defence Force [RDF] has consistently maintained defensive measures to address serious security threats along the border with the DRC,' reads part of the Embassy’s statement. 'Rwandans have the fundamental right to live in peace, free from the perpetual threat of insecurity emanating from the Democratic Republic of the Congo.'

Rwanda has expressed frustration over what it perceives as the international community’s failure to acknowledge its security concerns, particularly the threat posed by the FDLR and the inflammatory rhetoric from Congolese leaders calling for regime change in Kigali.

The Embassy asserted that Rwanda will not be intimidated or pressured into compromising its security.

'Only the Rwanda Defence Force and the Commander-in-Chief can determine the necessary defensive measures to protect the lives of Rwandans, especially when threats emerge a mere two kilometers away,' the statement added. 'Rwanda will not be bullied or blackmailed into compromising its national security.'

The Embassy also criticized Sweden for what it called a double standard in addressing the conflict. Given Sweden’s values of mutual respect, equal rights, and peacebuilding, Rwanda found it 'shocking and unfortunate' that Sweden has remained silent on the plight of Congolese Tutsi and the targeting of Rwandans in DRC.

'Sweden’s evident alignment with Belgium, a historical actor in the root causes and present-day insecurity and conflict in the region, is disheartening and questionable,' the Embassy noted.

It further argued that Sweden, having no colonial history in Rwanda and no involvement in illicit mineral dealings, is in a unique position to adopt an 'impartial’ diplomatic stance.

The international community has often framed the conflict in eastern DRC as a simplistic narrative of 'Rwanda backing M23,' ignoring the historical and political grievances that led to M23’s emergence.

The Embassy pointed out that M23 is a Congolese movement with legitimate concerns, arising from the DRC government’s failure to honor past peace agreements and protect the rights of Kinyarwanda-speaking Congolese, particularly Tutsi communities, who continue to face persecution, displacement, and targeted killings.

The Rwandan Embassy also condemned the international community’s failure to address the FARDC-FDLR collaboration and its reluctance to sanction those inciting violence against Congolese Tutsi.

The Embassy highlighted that despite clear evidence of this collaboration, the United Nations and international actors have failed to take decisive action against the DRC government.

'How can a national army align itself with a foreign genocidal militia?' the statement questioned. 'The international community, including Sweden, is fully aware of the FDLR threat, including its shelling of Rwandan territory on June 10, 2022. Despite this knowledge, Sweden has refused to officially condemn the FDLR and FARDC collaboration. Why?'

Rwanda also took issue with Sweden’s silence on the recruitment of European mercenaries by the DRC government, pointing out that Rwanda has, in contrast, upheld its humanitarian obligations by hosting thousands of refugees, including former FARDC soldiers and militia fighters, and facilitating safe evacuations for MONUSCO personnel and international organizations.

The Embassy urged Sweden to respect and support the African-led mediation process, reinforced by the joint East African Community (EAC) and Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, along with the African Union’s efforts to bring peace to the region.

'Rwanda’s sole objective is a secure border and a definitive end to violent ethnic extremism in the region,' the statement concluded. 'The cycles of conflict fueled by the DRC government’s failures and the international community’s inaction must not be tolerated any longer.'

Rwanda maintains that it will continue to safeguard its territorial integrity and protect its citizens while urging the international community, including Sweden, to adopt an impartial and balanced approach to the conflict in eastern DRC.

International pressure mounted following the recent capture of Goma and Bukavu, key cities in the North and South Kivu provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Calm has been reportedly restored in areas currently controlled by M23.

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During a recent parliamentary session, Minister Collins was questioned about the killing of 70 Christians by the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) in Lubero territory, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

In response, he claimed to have met with Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Amb. Olivier Nduhungirehe, who he alleged had “denied all these crimes.”

Taking to social media on February 27, 2025, Minister Nduhungirehe condemned Collins’ statements as an attempt to distort facts.

He further stated that the Rwandan government expects the UK to issue a formal clarification regarding these claims.

Amb. Nduhungirehe confirmed that High Commissioner Thorpe was summoned on February 27, 2025, to discuss the matter and convey Rwanda’s concerns.

The ADF, an extremist militia originating from Uganda, operates primarily in the Ituri and North Kivu provinces of the DRC.

Despite repeated insinuations, there is no evidence linking Rwanda to the group’s activities. On the contrary, Rwanda has been a target of ADF-planned attacks, all of which have been foiled.

UN reports have previously confirmed that the ADF had planned attacks in Kigali during the 2022 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

Additionally, in October 2021, Rwanda’s Investigation Bureau (RIB) arrested 13 individuals linked to the ADF who were allegedly planning attacks on key infrastructure in Kigali using explosives.

Rwanda continues to reject any unfounded allegations and remains firm in its commitment to regional security and stability.

Rwanda has summoned the British High Commissioner to Rwanda, Alison Thorpe.

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The country is home to a variety of valuable minerals, some of which have been mined since the colonial era. A 2017 study identified 52 mineral-rich zones, with 37 already licensed for extraction, while five remain within protected national parks.

One notable mining site is Nyiramuganza in Ngororero District, where research on a six-square-kilometer area uncovered deposits of coltan, cassiterite, wolfram, and gold. Experts estimate that fully extracting these minerals could generate up to $800 million. Gold mining continues to be a key driver of the industry, with major extraction sites in Miyove, Ruzizi, Nyamasheke, and Musanze.

Rwanda is also intensifying geological research, particularly on lithium and gemstones, which are crucial for the production of modern technology. The government’s 2024/25 strategy focuses on boosting both the quantity and quality of exported minerals, aiming for a revenue increase from $1.2 billion in 2023/24 to $1.3 billion. Quarterly earnings are expected to reach $325 million.

According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda, the industrial sector saw a 5.7% increase in output in December 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, with mining output alone rising by 2.5%.

The country has made significant progress in mineral processing, with refined gold from Gasabo Gold Refinery and processed tin from LuNa Smelter among its key exports. The long-term objective is to ensure that all minerals are processed before being exported.

Exploration efforts will continue in 26 promising locations, including Ndiza, Miyove, Nyamasheke, Ruhango, Ruli, Gatumba, Burera-Rulindo, and Huye, as authorities work to expand mining operations.

The Rwanda Mining Association (RMA) is advocating for a shift from traditional mining methods to a more professional and technology-driven approach. Currently, 96% of mining sites employ trained workers, while 34.9% utilize modern technology, a figure expected to increase to 44.9% by June 2025.

Additionally, a nationwide survey is being conducted to map mineral deposits across different regions, providing accurate data to guide investment decisions. While almost all districts have licensed mining activities, Gisagara remains the only district without a mining permit.

With ongoing investment in modern technology, value addition, and exploration, Rwanda’s mining sector continues to be a key pillar of economic growth.

Beryllium, a silver-grey metallic element known for its lightweight properties and high strength, is primarily found in Ngororero District in Rwanda’s Western Province.

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The talks aim to advance the next phase of the truce agreement while ensuring the implementation of previously established commitments, according to Egypt’s State Information Service (SIS).

Discussions also focused on enhancing humanitarian aid to Gaza, addressing the ongoing crisis, and stabilizing the region.

The renewed negotiations follow the completion of a prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas under the first phase of the ceasefire deal, which is set to expire on Saturday.

Israeli officials confirmed that their delegation traveled to Cairo to assess the possibility of extending the truce in exchange for the release of more hostages.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar stated that Israel is open to continuing the framework under specific conditions.

According to Israeli reports, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with their safe return being a priority for Israeli authorities.

Hamas has expressed willingness to proceed with discussions on the second phase of the agreement but insists that any further hostage releases must be tied to a sustained ceasefire.

The ongoing truce, brokered by Qatar and Egypt with U.S. support, first took effect on January 19. The outcome of the Cairo negotiations will determine whether the fragile peace can be maintained.

Members of the Al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, and an Israeli hostage are seen during the handover of three Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross, in the al-Nuseirat refugee camp, in central Gaza, on Feb. 22, 2025. (Photo by Xinhua)

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The tariff, which targets European goods including automobiles, was presented by Trump as a necessary measure against what he described as European trade practices that disadvantage American businesses. He accused the EU of blocking U.S. exports, particularly in the automotive and agricultural sectors.

In response, the European Commission emphasized that American companies have benefited significantly from investments in Europe.

Officials underscored that the EU’s single market structure has enhanced trade and reduced costs for international businesses, including those from the United States.

The Commission also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting free and fair trade, vowing swift action against any unjustified trade barriers.

European Parliament leaders warned against economic isolation, emphasizing the shared values between Europe and the U.S. France and Spain echoed the call for unity, with French officials stressing the need for a strong and proportionate reaction.

Meanwhile, Spain’s Prime Minister underscored the EU’s commitment to open trade and cooperation, rejecting Trump’s claims that the bloc was formed to undermine the U.S.

Other European leaders also voiced concerns over the impact of the tariffs. Italy, a key exporter, expressed apprehension about escalating trade disputes, with industry leaders warning that these measures could disrupt European economies and threaten jobs.

Calls for a more assertive response to U.S. policies have grown among European businesses, which fear long-term economic consequences.

EU has vowed retaliation amid rising trade tensions with U.S.

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He also noted that Chad’s planned exit from the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) could weaken the coalition’s ability to conduct counterterrorism operations effectively.

Speaking during a review meeting on February 26, 2025, with Field Commanders in Abuja, Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted the evolving tactics of terrorist groups, particularly their use of drones modified to carry locally fabricated grenades in kamikaze-style attacks.

He referenced an incident in Damboa last year as a clear sign of their growing capability to integrate drone warfare into their operations. Given this development, he stressed the urgent need to deploy a comprehensive Counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (C-UAV) system to protect military personnel and critical air assets.

On January 29, 2025, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) formally acknowledged the exit of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger following the completion of a one-year withdrawal notice period.

Despite their departure, ECOWAS has urged its member states to continue recognizing the national passports of the three nations bearing the ECOWAS logo 'in the spirit of regional solidarity' until further notice.

The withdrawal of the three nations has deepened divisions within the bloc, casting uncertainty over the future of ECOWAS. The countries, which formally announced their intention to leave in January 2024, justified their decision by accusing ECOWAS of being overly influenced by France.

They have since pivoted toward alliances with Russia, Turkey, and Iran, while establishing their own regional coalition, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

With the deadline for their exit now in effect, the fracture in West Africa’s regional security and political landscape is becoming more pronounced, raising concerns about the broader implications for stability in the region.

The Alliance of Sahel States is a confederation formed between Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.

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As President of the OACPS Parliamentary Assembly, Tayebwa will play a crucial role in promoting the interests of African, Caribbean, and Pacific states on the global stage.

In his acknowledgment statement, he expressed gratitude to the delegates for electing him. 'I take this opportunity to thank delegates of the Organization of the African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) Parliamentary Assembly for electing me as the President of the Assembly and Co-President of the OACPS, European Union Joint Parliamentary Assembly for the next two years,' he said.

Tayebwa recognized that his election was not only a vote of confidence in him but also in the Parliament of Uganda, the government, and the country as a whole. 'This is a vote of confidence not only in the Parliament of Uganda but in the government and country as a whole,' he noted.

As President, Tayebwa pledged to focus on implementing the Samoa Agreement, which is the major operating legal framework between OACPS and the European Union. He also promised to put special emphasis on promoting trade between the EU and ACP countries through the removal of non-tariff barriers.

Additionally, he vowed to address key issues such as peace and security, promotion of social and human development, equality and social cohesion, climate change, and immigration.

'I promise to raise our flag high. During my presidency, I will focus on the implementation of the Samoa Agreement… I will put special emphasis on the promotion of trade between the EU and ACP countries through the removal of non-tariff barriers; peace and security, promotion of social and human development, equality and social cohesion, climate change, and immigration,' Tayebwa said.

He promised to work tirelessly to create a better world for all. 'Working together, we shall create a better world for all,' he said.

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Sports Direct has declared the Premier League title race over and announced Liverpool as unofficial Champions.

With 10 games to go, the retail giants wanted to be first to congratulate the Reds. The store has launched a range of unofficial Champions 25 T-shirts and replica shirts to celebrate Liverpool’s triumph.

A Sports Direct spokesperson said: 'We wanted to be the first to congratulate Liverpool for their remarkable run this season. The launch of our unofficial champions T-shirt and printed replica shirts offers fans the chance to celebrate early, ahead of the final Premier League push.'

According to him, Liverpool 'secured’ the title after their thrilling 2-0 victory over Newcastle United. The match saw Liverpool extend their lead at the top of the table, with an early goal from Dominik Szoboszlai and a 63rd-minute strike from Alexis Mac Allister.

In the Midlands, Arsenal dropped points for the second time in four days, drawing 0-0 with Nottingham Forest, to effectively signal the end of their title hopes.

Liverpool fans can now order a ‘Champions 25’ replica shirt. It boasts Champions and the number 25 on the back, while ‘Champions 25’ is also embroidered around the club badge.

After the Newcastle game, Coach Slot was asked if he felt the title was close but said his focus was on the next game against PSG in the Champions League next week.

He said: 'I don’t know because I don’t think that way. I think about Paris Saint-Germain already. What you don’t know but what I do know, because I watched them against City, because we played City, and I’m impressed by the quality they have.

'I think they are in a similar run as we are hardly lost any single game for a long time. Though I’m not always correct in data because two days ago my son told me that I made a big, big, big mistake by saying Cristiano Ronaldo never played in the Premier League.

'So, I’m not sure if Paris Saint-Germain has the same run as ours but they are doing really well. So, my main focus is on Paris Saint-Germain.

'I forget the league table now, I forget the Premier League now until the moment we’ve played Paris Saint-Germain and then I will start to think about the Premier League again.'

Sports Direct have begun selling Liverpool ‘Champions’ merchandise.

‘Champions 25’ on display underneath the club’s badge.

Sports Direct has declared the Premier League title race over and announced Liverpool as unofficial Champions.

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The grenade attack, involving two explosives, targeted civilians attending a meeting organized by the AFC/M23 coalition at the public square known as ‘Place de l’Indépendance’ in Bukavu on February 27, 2025.

“President Tshisekedi strongly condemns this terrorist attack carried out by foreign forces present on Congolese soil,” the DRC presidential office stated.

However, this statement has been interpreted by some social media users as an attempt to mislead the public, especially since evidence suggests that the Kinshasa government may have been involved in the attack.

AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka asserted that the attack was carried out under direct orders from South Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi, following instructions from President Tshisekedi. He claimed that many people, including the perpetrators, died during the incident.

Kanyuka further explained that on February 26, 2025, Purusi spread threatening messages across social media, reinforcing Tshisekedi’s alleged plan to target civilians in Bukavu.

One of these messages reportedly indicated that February 27 would be a historic day, as members of the Wazalendo militia planned to assassinate AFC leader Corneille Nangaa during a meeting in Bukavu.

M23 President Bertrand Bisimwa reiterated that their initial investigation confirmed the grenades used in the attack were from Burundian forces operating in eastern DRC.

Reports circulating on social media suggest that individuals from both Burundi and DRC warned about the attack after learning of its advanced planning stages.

According to these sources, the objective was to assassinate Corneille Nangaa and other key leaders, which would destabilize the AFC coalition and instill fear among civilians who have generally coexisted peacefully with M23 and attended the meeting in large numbers.

It is alleged that the DRC government intended to use the attack to counter narratives from those claiming that life has improved in areas controlled by M23. Many locals have reported increased security since M23 took over the cities of Goma and Bukavu.

AFC/M23 announced that they have arrested two individuals linked to the attack and are actively pursuing others. The group also stated that they are implementing new measures to strengthen civilian security.

The grenade attack, involving two explosives, targeted civilians attending a meeting organized by the AFC/M23 coalition.

It is alleged that the attack was under direct orders from South Kivu Governor Jean-Jacques Purusi, following instructions from President Tshisekedi.

AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka.

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