Gambiaj.com – (Brussels, Belgium) – The European Union is ramping up pressure on Rwanda over its alleged support for the M23 armed group operating in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). This escalation follows the group’s recent capture of key cities, including Goma and Bukavu, which has sparked international condemnation and calls for decisive action against Kigali.

The turning point came after Belgium, citing Rwanda’s direct military involvement in the DRC through its backing of M23 rebels, called for stringent sanctions, including a complete suspension of agreements between the EU and Rwanda. Initial hesitations from France and Portugal slowed the process, but a shift in tone has since emerged. On February 24, during a meeting in Brussels, EU foreign ministers reached a political agreement to introduce the first round of sanctions against Rwanda.

The proposed measures include asset freezes and travel bans on targeted individuals. These steps mirror existing American sanctions, which already target high-profile figures such as James Kabarebe, Rwanda’s Minister of State for Regional Integration and former Defense Minister. Kabarebe has been accused of playing a key role in supporting M23 operations in the DRC.

For Rwanda, these sanctions represent a significant diplomatic setback, as they mark a unified stance by all 27 EU member states against its alleged interference in the DRC’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Last week, the EU formally demanded that Kigali withdraw its troops from Kivu and cease all support to the M23 rebels.

While the EU’s initial sanctions are relatively moderate compared to Washington’s, European leaders are considering further punitive actions. Areas under scrutiny include political and security dialogues with Rwanda, the EU’s critical raw materials and rare minerals agreements with Kigali, and European funding for Rwanda’s military mission in Mozambique.

The United States has already taken broader action. On Thursday, it imposed sanctions on Minister James Kabarebe, M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka Kingston, and two companies linked to Kanyuka—Kingston Fresh and Kingston Holding—over their roles in the conflict. The U.S. has also sanctioned other entities accused of fueling violence and human rights abuses in the DRC’s eastern provinces.

The crisis has intensified since December 2024, when M23, backed by Rwandan forces, rapidly expanded its territorial control within the DRC. The group seized Goma, the capital of North Kivu, on January 27, and then took Bukavu, the capital of South Kivu, on February 16. The offensive has led to thousands of civilian casualties, massive displacement, and the deaths of three UN peacekeepers, further heightening fears of a wider regional conflict.

As the situation unfolds, the EU’s actions signal a firm but cautious approach, aiming to curb Rwanda’s alleged interference while leaving room for further diplomatic engagement. Observers now await Kigali’s response amid growing international scrutiny.