M23 Rebels Tighten Grip on Eastern DR Congo Amid U.S. Sanctions on Rwandan Officials

Rwanda faces international pressure as M23 advances in the DRC, escalating conflict and humanitarian crises.

The U.S. Treasury sanctioned Rwandan Minister James Kabarebe and M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka for alleged roles in the DRC conflict.
M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda, have captured major cities Goma and Bukavu, solidifying control over key territories in eastern DRC.
The conflict has displaced thousands, with 30,000 refugees fleeing to Burundi, marking the largest influx in 25 years.
Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi faces mounting political pressure as his military struggles to counter M23 advances, raising concerns about his leadership stability.
The international community, including the U.S., Germany, and the UN, has condemned the violence but remains divided on direct interventions or sanctions against Rwanda.