Burundi raises alarm over open War With Rwanda at UN
Burundi has warned that it could enter into open war with Rwanda if what it describes as continued attacks and accusations persist, according to statements delivered at the United Nations in New York.
Speaking before the UN Security Council, Burundi’s Ambassador Zéphyrin Maniratanga accused Rwanda of failing to comply with Resolution 2773, which calls on Kigali to withdraw troops it is accused of deploying in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The resolution also urges the Congolese government to dismantle armed groups operating in the east of the country, including the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), which Burundi says has been collaborating with Congolese forces in fighting the AFC/M23 rebellion.
The AFC/M23 movement has, since last week, captured new areas in South Kivu province, including the strategic city of Uvira, the second-largest urban center in the province. The group claims to have taken control of the city after defeating Congolese forces and their allies, including Burundian troops.
Following significant military losses in these clashes, Burundi has increasingly directed its criticism at Rwanda, accusing it of firing into Burundian territory. Bujumbura also claims that Rwanda, rather than AFC/M23, is now effectively controlling Uvira.
Ambassador Maniratanga told the Security Council that Burundi is deeply concerned by what it describes as cross-border attacks involving heavy weapons, drones, and other lethal arms, some of which have allegedly landed on Burundian soil. He said such actions violate Burundi’s sovereignty, endanger civilian populations, and undermine efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace in the region.
Calling for an emergency meeting of the Security Council, the Burundian diplomat urged the international body to consider measures including arms embargoes and economic sanctions against Rwanda. He warned that if attacks continue, Burundi would be prepared to go to war.
“Let me be clear,” Maniratanga said. “A ceasefire has limits. If these indiscriminate attacks continue, it will become extremely difficult to avoid an open war between our two countries.”
Tensions between Burundi and Rwanda remain high as fighting in eastern DRC continues. In recent clashes around Kamanyola, Lubarika, and Luvungi, Burundian troops were accused by local sources and rights groups of killing civilians using heavy weaponry after suffering battlefield setbacks.
Burundian forces have also long faced accusations of involvement in violence against Congolese civilians, particularly members of the Banyamulenge community, notably in Minembwe commune—allegations that add to the complexity and volatility of the regional crisis.
