The AFC/M23 rebel movement has condemned sanctions imposed by the United States on Rwandan mineral companies and their executives, describing the measures as biased and unhelpful to ongoing peace efforts in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
In a statement released by AFC/M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka, the group said targeting one side while peace talks are ongoing risks undermining prospects for a lasting settlement to the conflict.
“Imposing selective sanctions while peace negotiations are ongoing sends an unhelpful message and contributes nothing to achieving sustainable peace,” the statement said.
Kanyuka, himself sanctioned by the United States in 2025, also criticized Washington for not imposing similar measures on the DRC government or the FARDC, arguing that the approach reflects a lack of balance in addressing the conflict.
He reiterated AFC/M23’s position that the DRC’s natural resources should benefit its citizens, while accusing political elites in Kinshasa of enriching themselves at the expense of a population still facing poverty and insecurity.
On June 25, 2026, the U.S. Treasury Department sanctioned four Rwandan companies involved in mining and mineral processing, including Gasabo Gold Refinery.
Washington accuses the firms of facilitating the illicit trade of minerals from eastern DRC, alleging that revenues are used by AFC/M23 to finance its operations, including the purchase of weapons and payment of fighters.
The U.S. further claims that after AFC/M23 captured Goma and Bukavu in early 2025, Gasabo Gold Refinery became a key processor of gold originating from areas under the group’s control.
The Government of Rwanda rejected the sanctions, describing them as one-sided and ineffective in addressing the root causes of the conflict.
In an interview with France 24, Foreign Affairs Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe said the measures would not contribute to peace efforts in eastern DRC.
Meanwhile, the DRC government welcomed the sanctions, calling them a significant step in efforts to disrupt networks allegedly financing the ongoing conflict in the country’s east.
