US Sanctions Rwandan Gold and Mineral Networks Financing M23 Rebels
The United States Department of the Treasury imposed sanctions on July 6, 2026, against several Rwandan individuals and mining companies, including Gasabo Gold Refinery. The entities are accused of facilitating the illicit trade of conflict minerals from the Democratic Republic of the Congo to fund the M23 insurgency. The move aims to disrupt financial lifelines for the rebel group, which has maintained control over the eastern city of Goma since early 2025 despite international pressure.
Date: July 6, 2026
Location: Democratic Republic of the Congo
Conflict: M23 Rebellion
Category: sanctions
Severity: MEDIUM
Source: Al Jazeera