Rwanda Draws a Red Line on FDLR Threat as Kagame Says No Permission Will Be Sought for Self-Defence

Rwanda has drawn a firm line over its national security, with President Paul Kagame saying the country will not seek permission from anyone to defend itself against threats linked to the FDLR and its allies. Speaking to journalists on August 24, 2026, Kagame said Rwanda’s security decisions would ultimately be guided by what is necessary to protect the country, regardless of external pressure. Kagame argued that the FDLR threat has remained unresolved for more than three decades, despite numerous negotiations and international efforts. He said the failure to address the group at its roots has

Rwanda has drawn a firm line over its national security, with President Paul Kagame saying the country will not seek permission from anyone to defend itself against threats linked to the FDLR and its allies. Speaking to journalists on August 24, 2026, Kagame said Rwanda’s security decisions would ultimately be guided by what is necessary to protect the country, regardless of external pressure. Kagame argued that the FDLR threat has remained unresolved for more than three decades, despite numerous negotiations and international efforts. He said the failure to address the group at its roots has continued to create security challenges in the region. According to Kagame, Rwanda has repeatedly raised concerns over the presence and activities of the FDLR in eastern DRC, but believes the issue has not received the response it requires. The president also questioned the approach taken through international sanctions, arguing that some measures have targeted Rwanda instead of focusing on the FDLR and those accused of supporting it. Kagame further alleged continued cooperation between the DRC government and FDLR elements, including the incorporation of some fighters into the Congolese armed forces. These claims remain part of the wider and contested security dispute surrounding eastern DRC. Kagame said Rwanda would continue to prioritize its security while maintaining its commitment to peace and regional cooperation. “We do what is right in self-defence, and we will do it without fear, without asking for permission,” he said. His remarks underline Kigali’s position that national self-defence is a non-negotiable priority, even as diplomatic efforts and international pressure over the conflict in eastern DRC continue.