Washington Warns of Potential Sanctions Against Kigali

DRC-Rwanda February 17, 2026 - The United States has indicated that the agreement between Rwanda and the DRC signed in Washington “is only a starting point” and not the ultimate solution, according to Massad Boulos, Africa advisor to former President Donald Trump. His remarks came during a February 16 interview on France 24, amid renewed fighting on the ground. Boulos stressed that the Washington agreement is complementary to the Doha process, led by Qatar with US and EU support, which focuses specifically on the M23-DRC conflict. He acknowledged a “serious violation” of the Washington agreement following the capture of Uvira by M23 rebels, reportedly backed by Rwanda. While fighters withdrew, some positions around the city remain under rebel control. Regarding sanctions, the US official indicated that Washington has “a number of tools” available and could implement measures against President Paul Kagame or other actors. Targeted sanctions have previously been applied to individuals, including James Kabarebe, for conflict-related activities. Speaking in Kigali at the opening of the “Umushyikirano” national dialogue, Kagame blamed tensions on Rwandan Hutu rebels from the FDLR operating in Congolese territory and denied involvement in M23 operations, mineral exploitation, or territorial ambitions. UN and US reports, however, continue to allege Rwandan military support to M23, with the UN Security Council calling on Kigali to cease all support and withdraw troops from the DRC. Washington continues to engage Kigali, awaiting “concrete measures on the battlefield” to verify compliance with commitments.