By Our Reporter
WORLD
The government of Rwanda has severed its diplomatic relationship with the U.S following the latter’s sanctions against the Ministry of Defence and Zigama Credit and Savings Society.
The United States sanctioned the two over allegations that they have facilitated support for the M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), increasing pressure on President Paul Kagame’s government amid continuing conflict in the region.
The sanctions, announced on Wednesday, October 28, target the Ministry of Defence and Zigama Credit and Savings Society, which the US government accuses of supporting military operations and facilitating financial transactions connected to the rebellion.
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the action was intended to enforce Rwanda’s obligations under the Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity, signed by Kagame and Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi in December 2025.
In response to the sanctions, the Kagame government on Thursday, 29th October, 2026 accuses the U.S of applying selective justice saying Rwanda should not be punished for internal DRC conflict.
Consequently, Rwanda has given U.S Diplomats 48 hours to leave the country, promising to protect the premises, property and archives of the U.S Diplomatic Mission in Kigali.
