Security Measures to Remain Until FDLR Dismantled, Ambassador Tells US Lawmakers

Washington, January 22, 2026 - Rwanda has reaffirmed that its security measures will remain in effect until the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) dismantles the FDLR terrorist group, according to a statement by Rwandan Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, before the US House of Representatives Subcommittee on Foreign Affairs. Addressing lawmakers responsible for monitoring developments in Africa, Ambassador Mukantabana traced the origins of the FDLR, noting that its members have committed crimes for over 31 years. She highlighted that the US State Department designated the ALiR/FDLR as a terrorist organization in 2001 following attacks on tourists, including Americans, in Uganda's Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in May 1999. “Today, the FDLR remains active in eastern DRC, integrated into the operations of the DRC military. UN experts continue to document its activities. This genocidal group, which has existed since 1994, has not been defeated, has been preserved, protected, and supported by successive DRC governments,” Ambassador Mukantabana said. The ambassador stressed that the DRC’s cooperation with the FDLR, particularly in military operations against the AFC/M23, poses a direct threat to Rwanda. She cited a recent incident in late January 2025, when the group bombed the town of Rubavu, only to be repelled by Rwandan forces. “Our operations are solely aimed at protecting the Rwandan population by preventing cross-border threats. These measures are not related to seeking political advantage in the DRC or supporting any specific group,” she explained. Ambassador Mukantabana underlined that Rwanda’s security measures are temporary and will be lifted once the DRC complies with its obligations under the Washington Accords signed on June 27, 2025, and ratified on December 4, 2025. These accords require the DRC to dismantle the FDLR and repatriate its fighters. “Rwanda’s security measures will be reviewed as the level of threat decreases. Once a review confirms that the DRC government has acted to dismantle the FDLR, these measures will be lifted,” the ambassador assured US lawmakers. The statement reinforces Rwanda’s long-standing position that cross-border threats from armed groups in eastern DRC directly impact regional security and that responsibility lies with the DRC to neutralize such threats.