The United States has enacted sanctions against the Rwandan military and four senior officials, citing their direct support for the M23 rebel group, which has gained significant territory in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The U.S. Department of the Treasury announced the sanctions, emphasizing that the M23’s territorial advances were made possible through Rwandan backing. The sanctions target Vincent Nyakarundi, the chief of staff of the Rwandan Defence Force, along with three other high-ranking military officials.
The M23 group, which has been accused of committing severe human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians, has been at the center of conflict in the DRC. The U.S. State Department noted that the group continued to capture territory in violation of a U.S.-mediated peace agreement established in December 2025. Despite the signing of this agreement, which aimed to foster peace between Rwanda and the DRC, the M23 captured the city of Uvira shortly thereafter.
In response to the sanctions, Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo criticized the U.S. move as “unjust” and claimed it misrepresents the realities of the conflict. She accused the DRC of violating the peace agreement through indiscriminate military actions. The Rwandan government asserted its commitment to disengagement from the conflict, contingent upon the DRC fulfilling its obligations under the U.S.-led mediation.
The Congolese government welcomed the U.S. sanctions, viewing them as a strong endorsement of its territorial integrity and sovereignty. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that the U.S. would utilize all available measures to ensure compliance with the Washington Accords, calling for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan military forces from the DRC.
Despite the ongoing diplomatic efforts, fighting persists in eastern DRC, where M23 remains a dominant force among numerous armed factions. The conflict has resulted in a severe humanitarian crisis, displacing over seven million people, according to the United Nations. The situation continues to pose risks of escalating into a broader regional conflict, particularly with M23’s presence near the border with Burundi.
