The US Treasury has imposed sanctions on the Rwandan Ministry of Defence and Zigama Credit and Savings Society, a financial institution for security forces, over their support for the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The move was announced on October 28, 2026, by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. The sanctions freeze all assets and interests of the targeted entities in the US.
According to the US Treasury, the Rwandan government has failed to uphold its commitments under the Washington Agreement, signed in December 2025, to stop supporting the M23 and withdraw its troops from eastern DRC. The agreement was reached between Rwandan and Congolese leaders under US mediation. The US claims that thousands of Rwandan soldiers are fighting alongside the M23 in eastern DRC, with reports of surface-to-air missiles and aerial jamming equipment being deployed.
The US sanctions are a follow-up to previous measures imposed on the Rwandan army. President Donald Trump had promised to hold Rwanda accountable for its actions. The US Treasury Secretary emphasized that the Rwandan government must cease its support for the M23 and withdraw its troops from DRC. The sanctions aim to enforce the Washington Agreement, which has had limited impact on the ground.
The Rwandan government has responded to the sanctions, with spokesperson Yolande Makolo stating that all parties must be held accountable. She noted that the Washington Agreement includes clear commitments, particularly the neutralization of the FDLR militia, which is supported by DRC. Makolo accused DRC of failing to honor its commitments and called for the mediator to ensure accountability from all parties.
The Rwandan government remains committed to implementing the Washington Agreement, provided that DRC is willing to honor its commitments and the mediator ensures accountability from all parties. The situation in eastern DRC remains volatile, with ongoing fighting between the M23 and government forces. The international community has expressed concern over the humanitarian crisis in the region.
The US sanctions have significant implications for Rwanda, which relies heavily on international cooperation and aid. The country's economy and security are closely tied to its relationships with Western nations. The Rwandan government will need to reassess its support for the M23 and its military engagement in DRC to avoid further diplomatic and economic repercussions.
The situation in DRC and Rwanda remains complex, with multiple stakeholders and interests involved. The international community will be watching closely to see how the Rwandan government responds to the US sanctions and whether it will lead to a de-escalation of tensions in eastern DRC. The humanitarian situation in the region remains a pressing concern, with thousands of civilians displaced and affected by the ongoing conflict.
Key points
- US Treasury sanctions Rwandan Defence Ministry and financial institution over support for M23 in DRC
- Rwandan government responds, calling for accountability from all parties
- Situation in eastern DRC remains volatile, with ongoing fighting and humanitarian concerns
