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U.S. Sanctions Rwanda’s Military Over Backing of M23 in Eastern DRC

Treasury orders asset blocks to press for an immediate RDF withdrawal.

Overview

  • OFAC designated the Rwanda Defence Force as an institution along with Gen. Mubarakh Muganga, Maj. Gen. Vincent Nyakarundi, Maj. Gen. Ruki Karusisi, and Special Operations Commander Stanislas Gashugi.
  • Treasury said the RDF has provided direct operational support to M23, including drones, air-defense equipment and GPS jamming systems, and deployed thousands of troops inside eastern DRC.
  • The measures block any assets under U.S. jurisdiction and criminalize financial transactions with the named entity and officers.
  • Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the United States expects the immediate withdrawal of RDF troops, weapons and equipment from eastern Congo.
  • Rwanda rejected the action as one-sided and accused Kinshasa of ceasefire breaches, while the DRC welcomed it as a signal of support for its sovereignty as fighting and negotiations continue.