The facts
Treasury said the ministry oversees forces operating alongside M23 in North and South Kivu and providing equipment, logistics and training. These are Treasury's stated grounds for the sanctions, rather than a new judicial determination in this article. [1]
Treasury accused Zigama of facilitating transactions for M23 and its political alliance and assisting movement of gold from rebel-controlled territory. It designated Zigama under Executive Order 13413, as amended. [1]
The designations block covered property in the United States or under US persons' control. Treasury says transaction prohibitions are subject to applicable licences or exemptions. The Rwanda Defence Force had already been sanctioned on 2 March; the 28 October action targets the ministry and Zigama. [1]
Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo told AP that Rwanda remained ready to implement the Washington Accords while accusing Congo of failing to meet its own commitments. AP notes Rwanda's continued denial that it backs armed groups in Congo. [2]
Sources
References support the numbered facts above. Source checks: 28 Oct 2026, 22:41 UTC.
- Treasury Sanctions Rwandan Ministry of Defence and Financial Institution Supporting M23
US Department of the Treasury · Primary source · 28 Oct 2026
Original OFAC announcement identifies both designees, the legal basis, blocking effects and allegations. Allegations about conduct remain attributed to Treasury.
- US imposes sanctions on Rwandan defense ministry over involvement in eastern Congo conflict
The Associated Press · Reporting · 28 Oct 2026
Independent reporting includes a response to AP from Rwanda's government spokesperson. Treasury's allegations and Rwanda's response are distinct attributed accounts.