The United States has sanctioned two Rwandan businessmen and four companies accused of financing the M23 rebellion in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo through illicit mineral trading. Washington says the measures aim to disrupt networks that profit from smuggled gold, coltan, and other critical minerals used to fund armed groups responsible for violence and displacement. The Congolese government welcomed the sanctions, while Rwanda rejected the allegations as politically motivated and ineffective. The move follows years of reports by the United Nations and advocacy groups documenting cross-border mineral smuggling into Rwanda despite Kigali’s denials. Analysts say the conflict, which has persisted for decades, is driven largely by competition for the DRC’s vast mineral wealth, underscoring the need for stronger regional cooperation and domestic reforms alongside international pressure.
Al Jazeera