He explained that these measures were necessary due to ongoing security threats posed by the FDLR, a terrorist group formed by individuals responsible for the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura illustrated the severity of the threat by comparing the distance between Kigali and FDLR's bases, 170 kilometers, to the distance between Paris and Reims. For three decades, he noted, Rwanda has faced a persistent security challenge along its border, necessitating strong defensive actions to protect its sovereignty.
Despite sanctions imposed by the U.S., the United Nations, and the European Union, FDLR continues to operate freely with the support of the Congolese government.
Amb. Nkulikiyimfura emphasized that instead of dismantling the group, the Congolese army (FARDC) collaborates with it, further endangering Rwanda's security.
He also criticized MONUSCO, the UN peacekeeping mission in DRC, for failing to neutralize FDLR despite its decades-long presence in the region.
Referring to recent security incidents, he highlighted that after the M23 rebels took control of Goma on January 27, 2025, FARDC forces launched artillery strikes into Rwanda's Rubavu district, killing 16 civilians.
He revealed that intelligence reports confirmed a coordinated plan involving FDLR, FARDC, Burundian forces, SAMIDRC troops, and European mercenaries to carry out a large-scale attack against Rwanda.
Additionally, weaponsâ€"including missiles, drones, and heavy artilleryâ€"were discovered less than five kilometers from Rwanda's border, indicating an imminent threat.
In light of these developments, the ambassador reaffirmed that Rwanda's defensive measures are necessary and justified to ensure national security.
IGIHE
