US sanctions Rwanda military over east Congo fighting

US Sanctions Rwanda Military Over East Congo Fighting

The United States has leveled accusations against Rwanda’s armed forces for breaching a peace accord signed in December 2023 with Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. This agreement, brokered in Washington alongside former President Donald Trump, aimed to stabilize the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and enhance access to vital mineral resources.

Monday’s sanctions target the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and several high-ranking military personnel for their alleged role in backing the M23 rebel group. The DRC government welcomed the measures, stating they underscore the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “This is a strong signal of support,” a Congolese official remarked, emphasizing the importance of the US stance.

“We expect the immediate withdrawal of Rwanda Defence Force troops, weapons and equipment,” said US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. “M23, a US- and UN-sanctioned entity, is responsible for horrific human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians, particularly women and children,” added State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott.

Rwanda’s officials have contested the accusations, calling the sanctions “unjustly” aimed at their nation. They claimed that the DRC itself broke the terms of the agreement by launching “indiscriminate” drone strikes and ground offensives. The country also denied supporting the M23, a rebel faction under US sanctions since 2013.

The sanctions include senior figures such as Vincent Nyakarundi, RDF’s army chief of staff; Ruki Karusisi, a major general; Mubarakh Muganga, chief of defense staff; and Stanislas Gashugi, special operations force commander. These officials face penalties for their alleged contributions to the conflict in mineral-rich eastern Congo.

Meanwhile, negotiations between the Congolese government and the M23 continue, with Qatar and the US acting as mediators. The ongoing talks seek to finalize terms that would bring lasting peace to the region, despite recent tensions.