The United States has imposed sanctions on the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and four senior commanders over alleged support for the March 23 Movement (M23) in eastern DR Congo, violating the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity signed in December 2025.
US officials accused Rwanda of supplying M23 with troops, drones, air defense systems, and training, enabling the rebel group to seize Uvira and commit abuses. Washington called for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan forces and equipment from Congolese territory.
The sanctions freeze RDF assets and bar Americans from transactions with the designated officers, with penalties for violations. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warned that Washington will use all tools to ensure compliance with the peace deal.
Although M23 reportedly withdrew from Uvira, the US stressed that Rwanda’s continued support threatens stability in eastern Congo and could derail regional peace efforts. Further actions may follow if the accords are ignored.
