US sanctions Rwanda’s Defence Ministry and Zigama bank over support for M23

The United States announced sanctions on October 28 against Rwanda’s Defence Ministry and Zigama Credit and Savings Society, accusing them of facilitating Rwanda’s support for the M23 and the Congo River Alliance. The US Treasury froze the entities’ property and interests subject to US jurisdiction, citing Washington’s commitment to enforcing the peace agreements signed by the DRC and Rwanda on December 4, 2025. Washington alleges that Rwandan Defence Forces deployed thousands of soldiers in North and South Kivu and provided the M23 with military equipment, logistical support, supplies and training. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent called on Kigali to end its support for the M23 and withdraw its troops from eastern DRC.