Rwanda Warns Against “Uncontrollable Actors” and Reaffirms Commitment to Regional

Washington Accords January 23, 2026 - In response to renewed clashes in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda has reaffirmed its commitment to the Washington Accords signed with the DRC under U.S. auspices, while calling for the strict implementation of security measures to prevent escalation and protect civilians. In an official statement issued on Thursday, January 22, Rwanda’s ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, outlined Kigali’s position on the implementation and implications of the accords. Rwanda expressed its gratitude to the United States for prioritizing the peace process between Rwanda and the DRC, in coordination with Qatar’s mediation efforts, describing the Washington Accords as a major step toward lasting stability, security, and prosperity in the Great Lakes region. However, the Rwandan diplomat warned of continued violence in eastern DRC, attributing it to “uncontrollable actors,” including mercenaries, militias supported by certain governments, and elements within the Congolese state. According to her, these actors attempted to undermine the Washington Accords by orchestrating violence in November and December 2025 and shifting blame onto Rwanda. She also stated that the AFC/M23 rebels had unilaterally withdrawn from Uvira in South Kivu, a move Kigali described as a sign of commitment to de-escalation. The statement recalls the historical insecurity in the region, particularly linked to the FDLR, which Rwanda accuses of responsibility for atrocities committed since 1994. Rwanda emphasized that it continues to maintain defensive measures to protect its population against any resurgence of genocidal violence. “The memory of the genocide survivors, the graves of a million victims, and the documented history of the Abacengezi insurgency compel us to maintain our defense capabilities until credible security guarantees are established and the threat disappears permanently,” the statement said. On the political and economic front, Rwanda stressed that the Washington Accords are not intended to influence the internal affairs of the DRC, but rather to serve as a framework for regional development. “The Regional Investment Framework for Peace (REIF) identifies key areas for economic cooperation between Rwanda and the DRC, demonstrating the tangible benefits of peace and creating investment and growth opportunities that directly benefit regional populations,” the statement added. Rwanda reaffirmed its willingness to continue security coordination, contingent upon the disarmament and neutralization of the FDLR, while also supporting cross-border economic development. Kigali concluded by reiterating its readiness to work with the DRC, the United States, Qatar, the African Union, and other partners to transform the Washington Accords into lasting peace and inclusive regional development.