As the Great Lakes region continues to face insecurity stemming from the ongoing conflict in eastern the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Rwanda has consistently emphasized that diplomacy, international cooperation, and peace talks remain the most crucial tools for addressing the serious challenges affecting the region.
This was evident in discussions between Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Ambassador Olivier Nduhungirehe, and his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov.
The two officials met in Cairo, Egypt, during the Russia-Africa Foreign Ministers’ meeting held from December 19 to 20, 2025. This meeting was regarded as an important platform to explore ways in which Africa and Russia can continue to expand cooperation across multiple sectors, including security, the economy, energy, and sustainable development.
Minister Sergey Lavrov highlighted that the relationship between Russia and Rwanda is built on trust and mutual respect, stressing that Rwanda is one of Moscow’s key partners in Africa. He said such meetings provide opportunities to discuss global challenges while also serving as a forum to continue bilateral dialogues for specific mutual interests.
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He stated: “We value the strong relationship between our countries. I am confident that broader discussions will take place regarding our cooperation, both at the regional and international levels.” These remarks underscored Russia’s commitment to remaining a key political and development partner for Rwanda.
On Rwanda’s side, Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe indicated that Kigali is eager to expand its cooperation with Russia, particularly in sectors with tangible impacts on citizens’ lives and national development.
Their discussions focused on energy, trade, the economy, and humanitarian cooperation, with both parties expressing a willingness to implement concrete projects.
One major highlight was Rwanda’s plan to establish a small nuclear power plant by 2030. The facility is expected to be built in a remote location on between 15 and 30 hectares of land and will employ approximately 230 people. The nuclear energy generated is anticipated to provide sufficient, stable, and environmentally friendly electricity, in line with Rwanda’s sustainable development goals.
This cooperation also builds on the expertise of Rwandans who have studied nuclear energy in Russia, as well as others still pursuing studies there. These students and specialists are expected to play a major role in implementing the project, demonstrating Rwanda’s investment in advanced knowledge and technology.
During the Cairo talks, the security situation in eastern DRC received significant attention. Minister Nduhungirehe affirmed Rwanda’s support for peaceful dialogue and commended Russia’s ongoing role in supporting initiatives aimed at finding a long-term solution to the decades-long conflict in the region.
He stated: “We discussed the situation in eastern DRC, and I took the opportunity to show my counterpart our appreciation for Russia’s continued support of ongoing peace initiatives.” His remarks reflected Kigali’s insistence that the DRC issue should be resolved through political dialogue rather than by continuing the path of war.
These diplomatic discussions occurred shortly after Burundi issued sharp warnings through its UN envoy in New York, Ambassador Zéphyrin Maniratanga, stating that it could enter into open war with Rwanda.
Ambassador Maniratanga accused Rwanda of failing to comply with UN Security Council Resolution 2773, which calls for the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from the DRC. He also reminded that the resolution requires the DRC government to dismantle armed groups operating in its eastern territories, including the FDLR, which Rwanda has long identified as a destabilizing force allied with DRC forces in fighting AFC/M23.
His comments followed recent developments in which the AFC/M23 captured new territories in South Kivu, including the city of Uvira, the province’s second-largest city. These clashes left Burundian forces, previously deployed to confront the group, defeated, further escalating tensions between Bujumbura and Kigali.
Following these clashes, Burundi accused Rwanda of firing across its borders and attempting to control Uvira itself, denying that the city was under AFC/M23 control.
Ambassador Maniratanga expressed concern over cross-border attacks using heavy artillery, drones, and other lethal weapons, some of which reached Burundian territory. He said: “These actions violate our territorial integrity, endanger civilians, and undermine efforts toward achieving regional peace.”
He called on the UN Security Council to convene an emergency meeting and take strong measures, including arms and economic sanctions against Rwanda.
He further warned that if these alleged attacks continued, Burundi is prepared to enter open warfare, adding: “Let me be clear. Borders have limits. If these attacks continue, it will be extremely difficult to avoid open conflict between our countries.”
These statements come as Burundi continues to pressure Rwanda, even as reports indicate that Burundian forces were defeated in battles in Kamanyola, Lubarika, and Luvungi.
There are also ongoing allegations that some Burundian soldiers have killed civilians using heavy weaponry, particularly targeting the Banyamulenge in the Minembwe area.
While Burundi continues with threats, Rwanda has maintained its focus on diplomacy, international cooperation, and peaceful dialogue.
The discussions between Nduhungirehe and Lavrov have given Kigali confidence that it has strong international partners, reducing the impact of Burundi’s warlike rhetoric.
For Rwanda, continuing cooperation with Russia in energy, economic, and security sectors signals that the country seeks sustainable solutions, relying not on returning to war but on strategic intelligence, partnerships, and long-term vision.
