US sanctions Rwanda military over east Congo fighting

US Imposes Sanctions on Rwanda’s Military for Involvement in Eastern Congo Conflict

On Monday, the United States imposed sanctions on Rwanda’s military and several high-ranking officials, citing their support for the M23 rebel group in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The move follows allegations that the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) has breached a peace agreement signed in December 2023, during a joint ceremony with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Washington, D.C., in the presence of former President Donald Trump.

The DRC government welcomed the U.S. action, stating it “expresses deep appreciation” for the measures, which they view as reinforcing the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The peace deal, brokered by the U.S., was intended to stabilize the region and grant American access to vital mineral resources. However, the U.S. claims Rwanda has undermined this agreement by providing military backing to M23, a group already sanctioned by Washington and the United Nations.

Allegations of Violations and Calls for Withdrawal

According to the State Department, Rwanda’s military has been actively involved in supporting M23, which has escalated violence in the mineral-rich eastern DRC. “We expect the immediate withdrawal of Rwanda Defence Force troops, weapons, and equipment,” said Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The U.S. also highlighted M23’s role in severe human rights violations, including summary executions and attacks on civilians, particularly women and children.

“M23, a US- and UN-sanctioned entity, is responsible for horrific human rights abuses,” stated State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott.

The sanctions target four key RDF figures: Vincent Nyakarundi, the army chief of staff; Ruki Karusisi, a major general; Mubarakh Muganga, chief of defense staff; and Stanislas Gashugi, commander of the special operations force. Rwanda, however, contested the accusations, calling the sanctions “unjustly” directed at its forces and arguing they “misrepresent the reality” of the conflict. A Rwandan spokesperson claimed Congo itself had violated the agreement through “indiscriminate” drone strikes and ground operations.

Meanwhile, talks between the Congolese government and M23 continue, with Qatar and the U.S. acting as mediators. The DRC insists the peace process remains critical to resolving ongoing tensions, despite the recent sanctions against Rwanda’s military involvement. The situation underscores the complex dynamics between regional actors and international powers in addressing instability in the eastern Congo.