KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of Congo — The United States has imposed sanctions on former Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Joseph Kabila, citing his alleged support for Rwanda-backed rebel groups, including the M23 and the Congo River Alliance (AFC).
The sanctions aim to freeze Kabila’s assets in the U. S. And prevent transactions with him by American entities.
The U. S. Treasury Department’s statement on the sanctions accused Kabila of financially backing the M23, encouraging military defections, and attempting to undermine the government’s efforts.
These actions are seen as a violation of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity, a regional peace deal brokered in December 2025. Kabila, who governed the DRC from 2001 to 2019, has been accused of continuing to influence Congolese politics through his support of rebel groups, particularly in the eastern region where the M23 operates.
The sanctions come amidst ongoing conflict in the DRC, where the M23 rebels are believed to be supported by Rwanda, despite Kigali’s denials.
The DRC government welcomed the U. S. Sanctions, viewing them as a strong message in support of its territorial integrity and sovereignty.
President Felix Tshisekedi’s administration has been working to stabilize the country and end the conflict in the east, while Rwanda has denied direct support to the M23, describing its military presence in the region as a defensive measure against threats from armed groups in the DRC.
The imposition of sanctions on Kabila and other officials is seen as a crucial step in addressing the ongoing instability in the DRC and promoting peace and stability in the region.
However, the effectiveness of these sanctions in achieving their intended goals remains to be seen, given the complex and protracted nature of the conflict in the DRC.
*Additional reporting by ImNews | Sources consulted: 5*
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This original article was produced by the ImNews editorial team
Source: rfi
Source: RFI
