In a heightened diplomatic tension between Burundi and Rwanda, the Burundian government has announced the closure of its border with Rwanda. This move comes weeks after Burundi's President, Evariste Ndayishimiye, accused Rwanda of harboring and training the Red Tabara rebel group, which claimed responsibility for an attack near Burundi's western border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in December. Rwanda has consistently denied the allegations made by President Ndayishimiye. The closure of the border was reported by Rwanda through media channels, and a spokesperson for the Rwandan government, Yolande Makolo, expressed concern over the decision, stating that it violates the principles of regional cooperation and integration within the East African Community. Burundi's Interior Minister, Martin Niteretse, confirmed the closure, emphasizing that the borders are sealed and that no passage would be allowed. The December attack, according to Burundi, resulted in the death of 20 people, while the Red Tabara rebel group claimed to have killed nine soldiers and a police officer. The shutting of the border adds another layer of complexity to the ongoing diplomatic strain between the two East African nations. The situation is being closely watched as regional dynamics and relations come into play amid accusations and counter-accusations.

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