Rwanda has dismissed recent allegations by Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye that Kigali is planning an attack on Burundi, calling the claims “unfortunate” and emphasizing the ongoing security discussions between the two countries.
Speaking to the BBC, Ndayishimiye accused Rwanda of plotting aggression against Burundi and claimed Kigali was involved in past political instability in his country.
However, Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe rejected these statements, emphasizing that military and intelligence officials from both countries had already agreed on the need for de-escalation.
“This statement by the President of Burundi is unfortunate, especially since military and intelligence authorities from both countries are currently in discussions and have even agreed on the need for both military and verbal de-escalation,” Nduhungirehe stated.
He further revealed that he had personally discussed the issue with his Burundian counterpart on the sidelines of the EAC-SADC ministerial meeting in Harare on March 17, where both sides had aligned on reducing tensions.
Despite these diplomatic efforts, Burundi has continued military operations in eastern DRC, where Burundian troops fight alongside Congolese forces (FARDC) and armed groups against M23 and local Congolese communities.
Reports indicate that Burundian forces have been implicated in atrocities, adding another layer of complexity to the ongoing regional crisis.
Rwanda reaffirmed its commitment to peace with Burundi and stability in the Great Lakes region. Nduhungirehe stressed that Rwanda would continue to engage constructively and urged Bujumbura to exercise restraint in its official rhetoric.
“As always, Rwanda remains committed to peace with Burundi and in the Great Lakes region, while hoping for more calm and measured statements from the other side of the Akanyaru,” he added.
With military and diplomatic talks already in place, Rwanda’s position reflects a commitment to resolving tensions through dialogue rather than inflammatory accusations.
Meanwhile, Burundi’s continued involvement in eastern DRC raises questions about its role in regional security dynamics.