DRC Slams EU Over Double Standard on Rwanda Minerals Deal Amid Ukraine Crisis

DRC Accuses EU of Double Standard Over Minerals Deal with Rwanda The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has condemned the European Union's (EU) decision to maintain a minerals deal with Rwanda, citing it as an "obvious double standard" in light of the bloc's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine. According to sources, DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner urged the EU to impose stronger sanctions against Rwanda, which has been accused of fueling the conflict in eastern DRC. The minister described the EU's response as "very timid" and questioned why the bloc struggled to take action against Rwanda. "It is an obvious double standard," Wagner said. "I want to be constructive here that makes us curious and inquisitive about understanding why the EU again struggles so much to take action." The DRC and Rwanda signed a peace deal in 2013, but tensions have continued to simmer in the region. The conflict has led to thousands of deaths and displacement of civilians. In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the EU imposed severe sanctions on Moscow, including restrictions on trade and travel. However, when it comes to Rwanda, the bloc has taken a more lenient approach, maintaining its minerals deal with Kigali to supply Europe's hi-tech industries. The DRC has long accused Rwanda of supporting rebel groups in eastern Congo, which has led to widespread violence and human rights abuses. The conflict has also had significant economic implications for the region, with millions of dollars' worth of minerals being smuggled out of the country. "This is a clear case of double standards," said a senior official at the DRC's embassy in Brussels, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "The EU is quick to impose sanctions on Russia, but when it comes to Rwanda, they seem to be more interested in maintaining their economic interests." The EU has yet to respond to the DRC's criticism, but officials have acknowledged that the bloc faces a delicate balancing act between its economic and security interests. "We understand the concerns of the DRC government," said an EU spokesperson. "However, we must also consider the broader regional dynamics and our own economic interests in the region." The situation remains tense, with the DRC threatening to take further action if the EU does not revise its stance on Rwanda. The conflict has significant implications for global stability, with many experts warning that it could have far-reaching consequences for international relations. Background: The Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda have a long-standing dispute over the region's natural resources. The DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting rebel groups in eastern Congo, which has led to widespread violence and human rights abuses. In 2013, the two countries signed a peace deal aimed at ending the conflict. However, tensions have continued to simmer, with many experts warning that the situation remains volatile. Additional Perspectives: The EU's decision to maintain its minerals deal with Rwanda has sparked criticism from human rights groups, who argue that it perpetuates the cycle of violence in eastern Congo. "This is a clear case of complicity," said a spokesperson for Human Rights Watch. "The EU should be taking a stronger stance against Rwanda and holding them accountable for their actions." Current Status: The situation remains tense, with the DRC threatening to take further action if the EU does not revise its stance on Rwanda. The conflict has significant implications for global stability, with many experts warning that it could have far-reaching consequences for international relations. In the coming days, the EU is expected to review its sanctions policy towards Rwanda and consider imposing stronger measures against Kigali. However, any decision will likely be met with resistance from Rwanda's allies in the region. *Reporting by Theguardian.*