U.S. imposes sanctions on Rwandan military over alleged support for M23 rebels in Eastern Congo

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The United States has announced new sanctions against the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) and four of its top officers over claims that they provided assistance to the March 23 Movement (M23) operating in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

The decision was made public on Monday in a statement from the U.S. State Department. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Thomas “Tommy” Pigott said the action followed allegations that Rwanda offered “direct operational support” to the rebel group. He linked the move to the recent takeover of the Congolese city of Uvira by M23 fighters.

The statement noted that the fall of Uvira came “just days after President Trump presided over the December 4, 2025 signing of the historic Joint Declaration of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity” together with DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.

Washington described the rebel offensive as a “clear violation of the Washington Accords,” which were introduced as a peace framework for the troubled Great Lakes region.

U.S. officials stressed that M23 is already under sanctions from both the United States and the United Nations. The group faces accusations of carrying out serious abuses in eastern Congo.

“M23, a U.S.- and UN-sanctioned entity, is responsible for horrific human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians, including women and children,” the statement said.

The State Department also alleged that backing from the RDF and its senior commanders made it possible for M23 to take control of territory in the DRC and maintain its campaign.

“The continued backing from the RDF and its senior leadership has enabled M23 to capture DRC sovereign territory and continue these grave abuses,” the statement added.

The sanctions were issued under Executive Order 13413, as amended. The order authorises the U.S. government to penalise individuals and organisations accused of contributing to unrest in the DRC.

Pigott said the United States remains committed to the peace agreement and regional stability.

“The United States stands firm in its support for peace and stability in eastern DRC and the wider region,” he said.

“The Washington Accords mark a decisive turning point for the Great Lakes region, setting a new course for peace, cooperation, and prosperity among neighbors.”

The statement said the latest measures reflect Washington’s determination to see that the agreement is respected.

“As President Trump has made clear, the United States is prepared to use all available tools to ensure the DRC and Rwanda deliver on the promises of this historic agreement,” it said.

Eastern Congo has experienced prolonged conflict involving several armed groups. Rwanda has repeatedly faced accusations of backing M23. Kigali has denied those claims in the past.