The European Union is reviewing its agreement with Rwanda over raw materials amid growing concerns about the conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). High Representative Kaja Kallas announced that the bloc will reconsider its critical materials deal with Rwanda, which was signed last year to secure supplies for microchips and electric cars. The decision comes weeks after Rwandan-backed rebels seized control of DRC territory and prompting international condemnation.
Kallas stated that the situation in DRC is “grave” and that territorial integrity is non-negotiable. She also suspended EU defense and security consultations with Rwanda, citing concerns about the UN charter’s application everywhere.
The critical materials deal was part of a €300-billion infrastructure partnership plan and aimed to reduce dependency on geo-strategic rival China. However, many have questioned Rwanda’s role in extracting minerals from DRC mines, with some accusing the country of using M23 rebels to seize mines and smuggle minerals out of eastern DRC.
While the EU is reevaluating its deal with Rwanda, it will not impose immediate sanctions like the US has done. Instead, Kallas stated that potential sanctions would depend on the situation on the ground. The review of the agreement will also assess Rwanda’s compliance with environmental and sustainability standards.
Source: https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/02/24/kallas-optimistic-eu-leaders-can-approve-new-military-aid-package-for-ukraine-next-week