For years, Rwanda has denied allegations from the DRC, the United Nations, and Western governments that it supports M23 and its allied group, the Congo River Alliance (AFC)
The United States has imposed sanctions on Rwanda’s military and four senior officials, accusing them of providing “direct operational support” to the M23 rebel group, which has taken control of large areas in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
For years, Rwanda has denied allegations from the DRC, the United Nations, and Western governments that it supports M23 and its allied group, the Congo River Alliance (AFC).
The rebels have captured major cities in the mineral-rich eastern region, including the provincial capitals of North and South Kivu.
On Monday, the United States Department of the Treasury stated that M23’s territorial advances would not have been possible without Rwandan backing.
Separately, the United States Department of State said the group continued seizing territory late last year in clear violation of a U.S.-brokered peace agreement.
In December, U.S. President Donald Trump hosted the leaders of Rwanda and the DRC to sign a peace deal, describing it as a potential “great miracle.” However, only days later, M23 captured the key Congolese city of Uvira, according to the State Department.
Those sanctioned include Vincent Nyakarundi, chief of staff of the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF); Major-General Ruki Karusisi; Chief of Defence Staff Mubarakh Muganga; and Stanislas Gashugi, commander of special operations forces. U.S. officials said they played critical roles in supporting M23’s advances.
The State Department also accused M23 — already sanctioned by the U.S. and the UN — of committing serious human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians, particularly women and children.
Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo rejected the sanctions, calling them unjust and accusing Washington of misrepresenting the situation in eastern DRC. She also alleged that the DRC violated the peace agreement by carrying out indiscriminate drone strikes and ground offensives.
In comments to Reuters, Rwanda’s government said it remains committed to withdrawing its forces in line with U.S.-led mediation efforts but accused the DRC of failing to meet its own obligations, including ending support for armed militias.
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