The United States Treasury Department has implemented new sanctions against two prominent commanders of armed groups operating in the eastern region of the République Démocratique du Congo. This move is part of a broader diplomatic effort by Washington to encourage a peaceful resolution to the persistent instability in the Great Lakes region.
Targeting rebel leadership
Within the ranks of the M23, the sanctions specifically target John Imani Nzenze, the movement’s head of intelligence. Nzenze is identified as a primary deputy to Sultani Makenga, a leader who is already under both American and United Nations sanctions. Nzenze has been a central figure in the M23 since its initial uprising in 2012-2013, during which he directed multiple offensives against the national security forces.
Simultaneously, the FDLR has also been hit by these financial measures. Gustave Kubwayo, better known by his alias “Colonel Sirkoof,” has been designated for his role leading intelligence and special operations for the group. His activities are primarily concentrated in the Nyiragongo territory of North Kivu.
Pressure for regional stability
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent clarified that these actions are intended to enforce the expectations set out in the Washington Accords of December 4, 2025. The United States is demanding that the government of the République Démocratique du Congo take decisive steps to neutralize the FDLR and its associated factions. At the same time, Rwanda is being urged to pull back its military personnel and end all forms of assistance to the M23 rebels.
As a consequence of these new designations, any assets or property interests belonging to these commanders that are located within the United States or under the control of American citizens are now frozen. These individuals are also effectively barred from engaging in transactions within the American financial system.