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US imposes sanctions on Rwandan military leadership
The United States has sanctioned Rwanda's army and four senior commanders, alleging their support for the M23 rebel group fuels violence in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The move targets assets and restricts financial dealings with the sanctioned entities.
Accusations of undermining peace efforts
The U.S. Treasury Department stated the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) has actively trained, equipped, and fought alongside M23 rebels, violating a December peace agreement brokered by Washington. The deal, signed by Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, aimed to end hostilities in eastern DRC.
Despite the accord, M23 seized the strategic city of Uvira near Burundi's border days later, displacing thousands. While the group later withdrew under U.S. pressure, the Treasury Department warned its continued presence risks expanding the conflict regionally.
Rwanda denies support for M23
Kigali rejected the sanctions, calling them one-sided and claiming they distort the conflict's realities. Rwanda maintains its military presence in eastern DRC is defensive, citing threats from armed groups operating in the region. The government dismissed evidence of collaboration with M23 as unfounded.
In a statement, Rwanda accused the DRC of violating ceasefire agreements through drone strikes and ground offensives, which it said have resulted in civilian casualties. The government also alleged the DRC employs ethnic militias and mercenaries.
Sanctioned officials and U.S. demands
The sanctions target RDF assets in the U.S. and prohibit American individuals and businesses from engaging in financial transactions with the military or four named commanders: Army Chief of Staff Vincent Nyakarundi, 5th Infantry Division Commander Ruki Karusisi, Chief of Defence Staff Mubarakh Muganga, and Special Operations Head Stanislas Gashugi.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent demanded the "immediate withdrawal" of Rwandan troops, weapons, and equipment from eastern DRC. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott condemned M23 for "horrific human rights abuses," including summary executions and violence against civilians.
DRC welcomes sanctions as regional tensions persist
The Congolese government praised the U.S. move, calling it a show of support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The DRC has long accused Rwanda of backing M23, a claim Kigali denies despite widespread evidence.
The Trump administration framed the December peace deal as a means to secure access to critical minerals like cobalt and copper, essential for electronics and electric vehicles. However, the mineral-rich region has been plagued by conflict since the 1994 Rwandan genocide, with armed groups vying for control.
The latest escalation began early last year when M23 captured Goma, the capital of North Kivu province, near Rwanda's border.
Broader implications
The U.S. stated it would use "all available tools" to ensure both Rwanda and the DRC honor their commitments. Meanwhile, a parallel peace process led by Qatar, a U.S. ally with close ties to Rwanda, includes M23 but has yet to yield tangible results.
"Protecting our country is a badge of honor which the Rwanda Defence Force carries very proudly,"
Rwandan government statement
