U.S. Sanctions Rwanda’s Military, Senior Officers Over Alleged Support for M23

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on the Rwandan Defence Force (RDF) and four of its senior officers over what Washington described as direct operational support for the March 23 Movement (M23) in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Prime Business Africa reports.

The action, announced March 2, 2026, follows the recent capture of the Congolese city of Uvira by M23 fighters, an offensive U.S. officials say contravenes commitments made under the Washington Accords signed in December 2025.

President Donald Trump presided over the December 4 signing ceremony in Washington alongside Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The agreement, formally known as the Joint Declaration of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity, was aimed at de-escalating tensions and restoring stability in the Great Lakes region.

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However, U.S. authorities said Rwanda-backed M23 forces seized Uvira just days after the accord was concluded, calling it a “clear violation” of the agreement.

M23, which is under U.S. and United Nations sanctions, has been accused of grave human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians. Washington said continued backing from the RDF and its senior leadership enabled the group to expand its territorial control and sustain operations in eastern DRC.

Officials Designated

Among those sanctioned are four senior RDF officers identified by the U.S. Treasury Department as key figures in the military structure.

They include Nyakarundi and Karusisi, as well as Major General Vincent Nyakarundi’s successor in special operations, and Lieutenant General Mubarakh Muganga, Rwanda’s Chief of Defence Staff. Muganga previously served as Army Chief of Staff, a role in which U.S. officials allege he played a significant part in planning and commanding RDF operations in eastern DRC.

Also designated is Stanislas Gashugi, appointed Special Operations Force Commander on March 15, 2025.

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Legal Implications

The RDF was designated pursuant to Executive Order 13413, as amended by Executive Order 13671, for actions deemed to threaten the peace, security or stability of the DRC, and for materially assisting M23. The four officers were listed under the same authority for their leadership roles in the RDF.

As a result of the sanctions, all property and interests in property of the designated individuals and entity within the United States, or in the possession or control of U.S. persons, are blocked and must be reported to the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC).

The restrictions also extend to any entities owned 50 percent or more, directly or indirectly, by the sanctioned persons. Unless authorized by OFAC through a general or specific license, U.S. persons are broadly prohibited from engaging in transactions involving the property or interests of the blocked individuals and entity.

U.S. authorities warned that violations could attract civil or criminal penalties. Non-U.S. persons may also face exposure to sanctions if they facilitate transactions that cause U.S. persons to breach the restrictions or attempt to evade the measures.

U.S. Reaffirms Commitment to Accord

In a statement, Washington said the measures demonstrate its resolve to uphold the Washington Accords and ensure compliance by all signatories.
“The United States stands firm in its support for peace and stability in eastern DRC and the wider region,” the statement said, describing the accords as a decisive turning point for the Great Lakes region.

U.S. officials reiterated that sanctions are intended not as punishment but as a tool to encourage behavioral change and compliance with international commitments, adding that designated parties may petition for removal from the sanctions list in accordance with established procedures.

Amanze Chinonye

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Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.

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U.S. Sanctions Rwanda’s Military, Senior Officers Over Alleged Support for M23