UN Secretary-General Criticizes US for Ignoring UN Authority in Rwanda

Strategic Insights -

United Nations Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali expressed concern about the humanitarian mission in Rwanda, urging the United States to seek a UN mandate to carry out its efforts. The US is the largest donor to Rwanda's humanitarian efforts, but its troops and officials working in the capital, Kigali, are independent of the UN peacekeeping operation. Boutros-Ghali emphasized that foreign forces, including US troops, should either join the UN Assistance Mission in Rwanda (UNAMIR) or seek a separate mandate from the UN Security Council.

Key Takeaways:

  • The US is the most generous donor to Rwanda's humanitarian efforts, providing financial and logistical support.
  • Despite its significant contribution, the US has declined to join the UN peacekeeping operation in Rwanda, instead maintaining a separate humanitarian mission.
  • Secretary-General Boutros-Ghali has been critical of the international community's response to the Rwandan crisis, citing a lack of troops and funds for the UN mission.
  • The UN Security Council has yet to mandate UNAMIR to take over the protection zone established by France's "Operation Turquoise" in southwestern Rwanda.
  • The Rwandan operation is reportedly straining the Pentagon's budget, as Defense Secretary William Perry has warned that the US is bleeding its defense budget due to the operation.

Statistics:

  • 3 million Rwandan refugees are in need of humanitarian assistance.
  • $270 million: The additional aid requested by US Defense Secretary William Perry for the Rwandan operation.
  • $200 million: The aid promised by President Bill Clinton to Rwanda.
  • 2,600: The number of French troops deployed in Rwanda as part of "Operation Turquoise".
  • 5,500: The number of troops required for UNAMIR to take over the protection zone established by "Operation Turquoise".

Sources:

  • "Boutros-Ghali urges U.S. to seek UN mandate for Rwanda troops", United Press International.
  • "U.S. Pledges $270 Million for Rwanda Operation", The New York Times.