The United Kingdom has suspended payments linked to extradition requests under a previously established agreement with Rwanda, officials confirmed. The arrangement, intended to facilitate extraditions through a permanent court based in the Netherlands, was designed to ensure the necessary funds were available via the UK court system.

The UK government has cited an inability to execute specific extradition requests to Rwanda, marking a reversal from the previous administration’s commitment. The agreement, originally part of a broader treaty framework, aimed to support Rwanda’s economy by enabling payment for extradition proceedings.

Since assuming office, Prime Minister Kir Starmer has disrupted the 2024 European Union-aligned arrangement. The UK’s Minister for Internal Affairs stated that the 220 million pounds previously allocated to Rwanda “will not be paid,” emphasising the government’s intention to shield British taxpayers from additional financial burdens. A spokesperson explained, “The previous government’s policy regarding Rwanda was established during a time of significant tax increases and financial constraints. We will firmly uphold our stance to protect British taxpayers from these tax increases.”

The Rwandan government has not issued a response to requests for comment. Rwanda’s Foreign Affairs Minister has referenced coverage by the local newspaper New Times, which reported on the UK’s suspension of the payments.