The United States has sanctioned Rwanda's Ministry of Defense, citing its alleged support for the M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its exploitation of minerals. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Rwanda must cease supporting M23 and withdraw its troops from the DRC. The sanctions also target Zigama Credit and Savings Society, a bank serving Rwanda's security forces, for allegedly financing M23 and facilitating the transport of gold from rebel-controlled areas. The sanctions freeze assets of designated entities under U.S. jurisdiction and prohibit U.S. individuals and businesses from transacting with them. The DRC welcomed the move, while Rwanda denied supporting M23 and accused the DRC of failing to uphold peace agreement commitments.