The United States has imposed sanctions on the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) and four of its senior officers for providing direct operational support to the March 23 Movement (M23) and its affiliates in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The move comes just days after President Donald Trump presided over the December 4, 2025 signing of the Joint Declaration of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity alongside DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
Despite the agreement, Rwanda-backed M23 fighters seized the Congolese city of Uvira, a move widely seen as a clear violation of the Washington Accords.
Thomas “Tommy” Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the Bureau of African Affairs, described M23 — a U.S.- and UN-sanctioned entity — as responsible for grave human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians, particularly women and children.
He said continued support from the RDF and its senior leadership has enabled M23 to capture sovereign DRC territory and perpetuate serious violations.
“The Washington Accords mark a decisive turning point for the Great Lakes region, setting a new course for peace, cooperation, and prosperity among neighbors,” Pigott said.
He added that the latest sanctions demonstrate Washington’s determination to enforce the agreement.
“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 accord,” the statement said.
