In an exclusive interview with France 24, Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed Rwanda’s preparedness to engage in war with the Democratic Republic of Congo if necessary, emphasizing their fearlessness and readiness to fight.

This statement comes in response to accusations made by Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, who alleged that Rwanda is orchestrating a genocide in the eastern region of the DRC. Kagame countered these claims by accusing Tshisekedi of promoting a genocidal ideology against Congolese Tutsis.

Additionally, Kagame refrained from confirming the presence of Rwandan soldiers in the DRC, instead emphasizing the importance of addressing the underlying causes of regional tensions.

As Kagame gears up for a fourth term in the upcoming presidential election on July 15, he refuted allegations of election rigging and the repression and assassination of opponents. He reiterated his government’s commitment to ensuring free and fair elections.

These statements shed light on the escalating tensions between Rwanda and the DRC, highlighting the challenges Kagame faces as the election draws near. The conflict in eastern Congo, which has spanned decades, has resulted in one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises.

With over 100 armed groups vying for land and control of valuable mineral mines, the region has witnessed widespread violence, including mass killings, rapes, and other human rights violations.

This ongoing violence has forced approximately 7 million people to flee their homes, with many living in temporary camps or beyond the reach of aid.