US Sanctions Rwandan Officials for Violating Washington Accords

State Dept EB Bureau

Filed March 2nd, 2026

Detected March 3rd, 2026

Summary

The United States has sanctioned the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) and four senior RDF officers for their support of the M23 movement in the DRC, violating the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity. This action, taken under Executive Order 13413, demonstrates U.S. resolve to uphold regional stability.

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What changed

The U.S. Department of State announced sanctions against the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) and four senior RDF officers on March 2, 2026. These sanctions are a direct response to the RDF's operational support for the March 23 Movement (M23) in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which directly violated the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity signed on December 4, 2025. The M23, an entity already under U.S. and UN sanctions, has been implicated in severe human rights abuses, and the RDF's continued backing has enabled their territorial gains and ongoing violations.

This action, taken pursuant to Executive Order 13413, underscores the U.S. commitment to enforcing the Washington Accords and promoting peace and stability in the Great Lakes region. Regulated entities, particularly those involved in international relations or operating in the affected regions, should be aware of these sanctions and the potential for further enforcement actions. The Treasury Department's press release provides further details on the specific designations and the authorities invoked. Non-compliance with sanctions can result in severe penalties.

What to do next

Review Treasury Department's press release for specific details on sanctioned individuals and entities.
Assess any existing business relationships or transactions with the sanctioned RDF and officers.
Ensure compliance with all U.S. sanctions regulations related to Rwanda and the DRC.

Penalties

Sanctions imposed under Executive Order 13413, as amended, typically involve asset freezes and restrictions on financial transactions.

Source document (simplified)

Home Office of the Spokesperson Press Releases … Sanctioning Rwandan Violators of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity hide

Sanctioning Rwandan Violators of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity

Press Statement

Thomas "Tommy" Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson

March 2, 2026

Today, the United States is sanctioning the Rwandan Defense Force (RDF) and four senior RDF officers for their direct operational support to the March 23 Movement (M23) and its affiliates in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Just days after President Trump presided over the December 4, 2025 signing of the historic Joint Declaration of the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity with DRC President Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Kagame, Rwanda-backed M23 fighters captured the Congolese city of Uvira, in clear violation of the Washington Accords. M23, a U.S.- and UN-sanctioned entity, is responsible for horrific human rights abuses, including summary executions and violence against civilians, including women and children. The continued backing from the RDF and its senior leadership has enabled M23 to capture DRC sovereign territory and continue these grave abuses.

The United States stands firm in its support for peace and stability in eastern DRC and the wider region. The Washington Accords mark a decisive turning point for the Great Lakes region, setting a new course for peace, cooperation, and prosperity among neighbors. Today’s action demonstrates U.S. resolve to uphold the Washington Accords. As President Trump has made clear, the United States is prepared to use all available tools to ensure the DRC and Rwanda deliver on the promises of this historic agreement.

Today’s action is being taken pursuant to the authorities under Executive Order (E.O.) 13413, as amended. For more information on today’s action, please see the Department of the Treasury’s press release.