The United States has announced sanctions against armed groups and companies involved in illegal mining and the trade of conflict minerals in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The Department of the Treasury designated four entities operating in Rubaya, a region known for its deposits of critical minerals.
According to U.S. officials, these sanctions are intended to address activities that destabilize eastern DRC. The measures target armed groups engaged in illegal mining operations, which reportedly include forced labor and violence against civilians. They also affect companies based in both the DRC and China that have worked with these groups to profit from mineral extraction during ongoing instability.
“Today, the United States is sending a clear message that no armed group or commercial entity is immune from sanctions if they undermine peace, stability, or security in the DRC,” according to a statement released by the State Department.
The United States has been supporting peace efforts between the DRC and Rwanda through initiatives such as the Regional Economic Integration Framework. “Through the U.S.-mediated peace process, especially the Regional Economic Integration Framework, the United States supports the DRC and Rwanda in building a more peaceful and prosperous future. The United States is resolved to end the exploitation of conflict minerals in the Great Lakes region. The U.S. government will continue to take action to support a mining sector that contributes to lasting stability and economic development in the Great Lakes region and secure, reliable global critical minerals supply chains,” said an official statement.
The Treasury’s actions were carried out under Executive Order 13413, as amended. This order allows for sanctions on individuals or entities whose activities threaten peace or security in the DRC or who support those involved in illicit trade of natural resources from that country.
Further details about these designations can be found on the Department of Treasury’s press release.
