Imposes sanctions on Rwandan defense ministry over involvement in eastern Congo conflict

The U.S. imposed sanctions on Rwanda’s defense ministry on Wednesday, citing the country’s involvement in mineral-rich eastern Congo as fighting continues between Congolese government forces and M23 rebels. The action comes after a U.S.-mediated peace agreement signed late last year in Washington by Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame, with U.S. President Donald Trump present, yet violence has persisted. In a Treasury statement, the U.S. said Rwanda deployed thousands of troops across the North and South Kivu provinces alongside M23 and provided military equipment, supplies, logistical support and training. The statement also alleged Rwanda introduced advanced weapons, including surface-to-air missile systems and jamming gear, raising risks for civilian aviation. The U.S. also sanctioned Zigama Credit and Savings Society. Rwanda denies backing M23.