[New York Times] UNHSC - UN Security Council divided over response to ongoing crisis in Rwanda

The United Nations Historical Security Council (UNHSC) convened on Saturday to discuss the civil war in Rwanda, with debates on council members’ obligations towards the African nation intensifying amid calls to provide urgent humanitarian aid for civilians.

Sharp divisions between advocates of international intervention and defenders of national sovereignty dominated today’s meeting, stalling any progress toward a binding resolution. While the Rwandan delegation asserted its sovereign right to manage internal affairs, it expressed openness to humanitarian aid - provided that the Rwandan government retains full control over on-ground operations. The delegation of France strongly supported military aid to the Rwandan government, framing the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) as a rebel group seeking to overthrow the legitimately established Hutu-led administration. As parties disagreed on the extent of international intervention, New Zealand reminded the Council of their core mandate: to facilitate dialogue, promote peace negotiations, and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. 

The United States, while maintaining that it is Rwanda’s responsibility to de-escalate the conflict, also emphasized the need to prevent further atrocities in the region. The delegation of the United States called for “cooperation not coercion” to avoid imposing a foreign agenda and therefore pave the way for the Rwandan people to freely determine the future of their nation.

China reiterated the importance of respecting national sovereignty but voiced their intention to support peace talks, which the Rwandan delegation welcomed. 

Despite escalating violence in Rwanda, consensus within the Security Council remains elusive. As the debate concluded on Saturday evening, no binding resolution was passed, though several member states committed to continue discussions in the coming days. With the death toll rising and regional stability at risk, the Security Council faces increasing pressure to come to an agreement that reconciles opposing voices.