The United States has sanctioned Rwanda’s military and senior officials for allegedly supporting the M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), escalating tensions in the mineral-rich region.
The sanctions target Rwanda Defence Force leaders, including Army Chief of Staff Vincent Nyakarundi, Major General Ruki Karusisi, Chief of Defense Staff Mubarakh Muganga, and Special Operations Commander Stanislas Gashugi. The US Treasury has demanded the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops, weapons, and equipment from eastern Congo.
The State Department cited M23’s record of human rights abuses, including killings and violence against civilians, including women and children, as justification for the measures. The sanctions follow a December 2025 US-brokered peace agreement between Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, which aimed to stabilize the region and improve access to critical mineral reserves.
The Congolese government welcomed the US action, describing it as a clear signal of support for its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Rwanda, however, rejected the sanctions, claiming they misrepresent the conflict and allege violations by Congo, including indiscriminate drone strikes and ground offensives.
Mediation efforts involving Qatar and the US continue, with negotiations ongoing between Congo and M23 to finalize a lasting peace deal.
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