US Imposes Sanctions on Rwandan Military Leaders Over DRC Support

US Imposes Sanctions on Rwandan Military and Officials Over Alleged Support for M23 Rebel Group

The United States has imposed sanctions on Rwanda’s military and four of its top officials in connection with the alleged provision of direct operational support to the M23 rebel group. The sanctions, announced by the US Department of the Treasury, target Vincent Nyakarundi, Ruki Karusisi, Mubarakh Muganga, and Stanislas Gashugi for their roles as senior leaders within the Rwandan Defence Force.

According to the US State Department, the rebels’ gains in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) would not have been possible without Rwandan backing. The department also stated that M23 continued to capture territory despite a US-mediated agreement.

The sanctions come amid ongoing tensions between Rwanda and DRC over allegations of support for the rebel group. Rwanda has denied these claims, while DRC has welcomed the move as a “strong signal in support of respect” for its territorial integrity and sovereignty.

US President Donald Trump had previously brought together the leaders of Rwanda and DRC to sign a peace deal, but just days later, M23 captured the key Congolese city of Uvira. The US Treasury Department has stated that it will use all necessary tools to ensure that parties to the Washington Accords uphold their obligations.

The conflict in eastern DRC continues, with fighting on several fronts despite the signed agreements. M23 remains a prominent force in the region, and its continued presence near Burundi’s border carries the risk of escalating the conflict into a broader regional war.

According to the UN agency for refugees, more than seven million people have been displaced due to the conflict. The US has previously imposed sanctions on M23 since 2013.

Source: Al Jazeera