MWE Correspondent
Rwanda has strongly condemned recent sanctions imposed by the United States on its military and senior officials, calling the move “one-sided” and unfair.
The sanctions follow allegations that Rwanda provided support to the M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), intensifying already high regional tensions.
The U.S. government announced the sanctions against the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and four top military officials, including army chief Vincent Nyakarundi. Washington stated the action was taken in response to Rwanda’s alleged violations of the peace agreement signed between Kigali and Kinshasa, claiming that Rwandan forces assisted M23 in conducting offensives across the eastern DRC.
According to the U.S., the sanctions freeze any assets held by the RDF and the named officers under U.S. jurisdiction, while prohibiting financial transactions with them. Officials said these measures aim to pressure Rwanda to halt military support to the conflict and uphold the peace commitments made in December 2025.
Rwanda, however, rejects the sanctions as unjust, arguing that the United States has presented a distorted view of the conflict. Kigali asserts it remains committed to withdrawing its troops from eastern DRC but emphasises that this should occur alongside verifiable compliance by the Congolese government under the same peace framework. Rwanda’s foreign ministry also accused Kinshasa of repeated violations, citing military actions that endangered civilians and regional security.
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The sanctions come amid one of Africa’s most complex humanitarian crises, where multiple armed groups, including M23, have displaced millions and contributed to severe human suffering. The rebel group, designated by both the United Nations and the U.S. as a sanctioned entity due to human rights violations, continues to carry out operations in towns such as Uvira and surrounding areas.
Reactions to the U.S. sanctions have been mixed. Some regional leaders support measures that hold actors accountable for undermining peace agreements, while others caution that unilateral penalties risk deepening mistrust and may hinder diplomatic efforts. Rwanda has called for a more balanced approach, urging international partners to consider the actions of all parties involved and promote inclusive dialogue to resolve the conflict.
Experts highlight that sanctions alone are unlikely to bring lasting peace. Long-term stability in the eastern DRC depends on effective negotiation, monitoring of troop movements, and the protection of civilians. Analysts stress that ongoing engagement by regional and international mediators will be essential to prevent further escalation and address the humanitarian crisis.
