The United States has announced new sanctions against the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) and four of its top officers, accusing them of providing “direct operational support” to the March 23 Movement (M23) rebel group operating in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
In a statement released on Monday, the U.S. State Department said the punitive measures followed allegations that Rwanda aided M23 fighters who recently took control of the Congolese city of Uvira. The development reportedly came only days after President Donald Trump hosted the signing of the Joint Declaration of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity on December 4, 2025, alongside DRC President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
Washington described the rebel takeover of Uvira as a blatant breach of the Washington Accords, an agreement designed to promote stability and cooperation in the volatile Great Lakes region. U.S. officials emphasized that M23 is already subject to sanctions from both the United States and the United Nations, citing the group’s alleged involvement in serious human rights violations, including summary executions and attacks on civilians, particularly women and children.
According to the State Department, continued assistance from the RDF and its senior leadership has allowed M23 to expand its control over Congolese territory and perpetuate abuses. The sanctions were issued under Executive Order 13413, as amended, which authorizes action against individuals and entities deemed responsible for fueling instability in the DRC.
The U.S. government framed the decision as part of its broader commitment to upholding the Washington Accords, describing the agreement as a pivotal step toward peace, regional cooperation, and economic progress. Officials reiterated that Washington remains determined to ensure both the DRC and Rwanda adhere to the commitments outlined in the accord.
Eastern Congo has endured years of armed conflict involving various militia groups, with longstanding allegations that Rwanda backs M23 — claims that Kigali has consistently denied.