The United States has imposed sanctions on commanders from rival armed groups in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, showing growing concern that continued violence could undermine fragile peace efforts in one of the world’s most important mineral-producing regions.
The sanctions target John Imani Nzenze, an M23 commander and intelligence chief, and Gustave Kubwayo, a commander in the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia linked to perpetrators of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide.
Washington accused both men of helping sustain violence in eastern Congo, where conflict has displaced millions, triggered a worsening humanitarian crisis and complicated efforts to stabilise the region.
The move highlights the challenges facing ongoing diplomatic efforts between Congo and neighbouring Rwanda, which have been backed by the United States amid fears that escalating violence could destabilise a broader region already grappling with security and economic pressures.
Why eastern Congo matters to the world
