US sanctions Rwanda's army chief over support for Congo rebel group

The U.S. has imposed sanctions on James Kabarebe, Rwanda's minister of state, for allegedly supporting the M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This marks a significant action against a high-ranking official linked to the conflict. Kabarebe is accused of orchestrating military support for M23 and managing revenue from Congo's mineral resources. The U.S. Treasury aims to hold accountable those enabling destabilizing activities in the region. Rwanda denies these allegations, stating that sanctions are unjustified and counterproductive to peace efforts. The M23 has recently intensified its rebellion, capturing key cities and causing widespread displacement.