US Treasury Sanctions M23-Linked Mineral Network Over 1,400 Tons Smuggled to Rwanda
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jul 16
US Treasury Sanctions M23-Linked Mineral Network Over 1,400 Tons Smuggled to Rwanda
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jul 16
Summary
June 25 sanctions targeted a network the U.S. says helped M23 move minerals from eastern Congo into Rwanda, backing the Washington peace framework and tighter supply-chain oversight.
At the U.N., Congo's foreign minister said experts estimate at least 1,400 tons of coltan were smuggled from Rubaya after M23 seized the mines, generating about $800,000 a month for the rebel group.
Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner said the June 2025 Congo-Rwanda peace deal has not stopped fighting, but argued U.S. penalties on Rwandan officials, the RDF and smuggling networks show Washington is enforcing the accord.
She also warned sexual violence is rising sharply in M23-held areas, where victims often lack courts and healthcare, linking restored state control to justice and medical support.
Kinshasa, while welcoming deeper U.S. investment in copper, cobalt and lithium, said it rejects framing minerals ties as a U.S.-China contest and wants partnerships that include local processing and technology transfer.