EU to Sanction Nine Individuals Over Congo Viole...

EU to Sanction Nine Individuals Over Congo Violence

Zim Now Writer

The European Union is set to impose sanctions on nine individuals linked to the ongoing violence in the Democratic Republic of Congo, according to two EU diplomats.

The names of those affected have not been disclosed, in line with the standard practice of withholding details until sanctions are officially approved. EU foreign ministers are expected to finalize the decision in Brussels next Monday.

The conflict in eastern DRC has intensified in recent months, with the M23 rebel group seizing the region’s two largest cities since January. The rebellion, rooted in the aftermath of Rwanda’s 1994 genocide and competition over Congo’s vast mineral resources, has led to a devastating humanitarian crisis. According to the Congolese government, at least 7,000 people have died since January, while the United Nations estimates that over 600,000 people have been displaced since November.

Congo has long accused neighbouring Rwanda of backing the M23 rebels, a claim Rwanda denies. The EU has increased diplomatic pressure on Rwanda, summoning its ambassador last month and urging the country to “immediately withdraw” its troops from Congolese territory. The EU has also called for Rwanda to halt any support for the M23 and other armed groups.

In response to Rwanda’s alleged ties to M23, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas has announced that the bloc will review its agreement with Rwanda concerning critical raw materials. Rwanda has repeatedly denied providing weapons or military support to the rebel group.

As the conflict escalates, diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis continue. Angola is set to host peace talks with the M23 group next week, and the Congolese government is currently considering whether to send representatives, sources said on Thursday.