As a result of Rwanda’s actions in the eastern DRC, the Government of Canada has made the decision to suspend the issuance of permits for the export of controlled goods and technologies to Rwanda, and suspend new government-to-government business pursuits with Rwanda, as well as proactive support to private-sector business development activities, including trade missions.

The UK calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities, humanitarian access, respect for international humanitarian law, meaningful engagement with African-led peace processes, and the withdrawal of all Rwanda Defence Forces from Congolese territory.

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, announced on Monday the suspension of defence consultations with Kigali due to the involvement of Rwandan troops alongside the M23 rebels in eastern DR Congo.

President Félix Tshisekedi announced the imminent formation of a government of national unity on Saturday. During a meeting with members of political parties in the current ruling coalition, Mr. Tshisekedi told the attendees from the umbrella group known as the Sacred Union of the Nation to be united in order to confront external threats.

The UN Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution on Friday that strongly condemned the ongoing offensive and advance of M23 rebels in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The 15 members called on the Rwanda Defence Forces to stop supporting the armed group and immediately withdraw from Congolese territory “without preconditions.”