Rwanda-DRC Tensions Escalate as Kagame Mocks Tshisekedi: “I wish he wasn’t president of that good country”
Tensions between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have reached new heights after Rwandan President Paul Kagame mocked his Congolese counterpart, Felix Tshisekedi, in a recent interview.
During an interview with social media influencer Mario Nawfal, Kagame made a controversial statement about Tshisekedi’s leadership. When asked what he would say to the Congolese president in a private meeting, Kagame replied, “I would tell him I wish he wasn’t president of that good country.”
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Rwanda and DRC: A Conflict Fueled by M23
The two neighboring countries have been engaged in an indirect conflict that has caused thousands of deaths in eastern DRC. The M23 armed group, which is allegedly backed by Rwanda, has taken control of large parts of the mineral-rich region. The group launched a powerful military campaign in December 2024, overpowering the Congolese army.
M23 is just one of over 100 armed groups fighting for control of eastern DRC. However, it is the most powerful. In January 2025, M23 captured Goma, the largest city in the region. After securing Goma, the group announced its intention to take Kinshasa, the DRC’s capital, located over 2,000 kilometers away. Since then, M23 has made significant advances.
The Role of Rwanda in the Conflict
The conflict is rooted in historical tensions, including the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide and competition over Congo’s vast mineral wealth. The United Nations recently reported that over 4,000 Rwandan troops are fighting alongside M23 in Congo.
When asked about Rwanda’s involvement, Kagame claimed his country was only defending itself. “Rwanda has taken defensive measures,” he said. When pressed on whether thousands of Rwandan troops were in the DRC, he responded, “I don’t know.” However, in what seemed like a confirmation, Kagame added, “Why would somebody be asking me that question when he knows the truth?”
International Response
The international community is closely monitoring the situation. Karim Khan, the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC), recently warned that any armed warlord or military force operating in the DRC could face prosecution.
The growing conflict between Rwanda and the DRC raises concerns about regional stability and the humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo. As tensions escalate, the world watches to see what happens next.
Rwanda-DRC Tensions Escalate as Kagame Mocks Tshisekedi: “I wish he wasn’t president of that good country”
