The European Union is preparing to impose sanctions on approximately 10 individuals in response to the escalating offensive by the M23 rebel group in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, according to diplomatic sources on Friday.
The move comes as M23, widely believed to be supported by Rwanda, continues to capture vast territories in the mineral-rich eastern region of the DRC, including key urban centers such as Goma and Bukavu, with minimal resistance from Congolese forces.
While EU diplomats have not yet confirmed whether the measures will specifically target Rwandan officials, the sanctions are expected to be formalized during a meeting of EU foreign ministers scheduled for Monday.
UN investigators have previously stated that Rwanda maintains substantial influence over M23 operations, alleging that at least 4,000 Rwandan troops are embedded with the rebel group. Kigali, however, denies these claims and argues that it is countering threats from ethnic Hutu militias operating in the DRC.
Belgium has been leading the EU’s call for accountability, proposing additional steps such as halting mineral trade agreements with Rwanda, freezing development aid, and reconsidering support for Rwandan peacekeeping missions, including in Mozambique.
The latest surge in violence has intensified concerns about a broader regional conflict reminiscent of the Second Congo War (1998–2003), which involved numerous African nations and resulted in millions of deaths due to combat, disease, and famine.
