The Rwandan Ministry of Defense has reported that a fighter jet belonging to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has violated Rwanda’s airspace and landed at Rubavu Airport for a short time before departing.
“A Sukhoi-25 fighter jet from the Democratic Republic of Congo violated Rwandan airspace at 11h20 this morning and briefly touched down at Rubavu Airport in Western Province,” reads the statement issued by the Ministry of Defense.
“No military action was taken by Rwanda in response, and the jet returned to DRC. Rwandan authorities have protested this provocation to the DRC, who acknowledged the incident,” adds the statement.
The provocation happened following media reports on Sunday that Goma Airport was closed the whole day on Sunday awaiting the arrival of fighter jets. Rubavu Airport is just across the border from the Congolese city of Goma.
The provocation comes amidst escalating tensions between Rwanda and DRC over reciprocal accusations related to the fight between Congolese Army and M23 rebel group. DRC says that the M23 rebel group is receiving support from Rwanda. An allegation Rwanda has repeatedly denied.