The United States government has announced visa restrictions against several senior officials from Rwanda, accusing them of backing the M23 Rebel Group and contributing to instability in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.
In a statement issued by the United States Department of State, the U.S. said the measure targets individuals believed to be responsible for actions that are worsening the security situation in the region.
According to the department, the visa restrictions are intended to hold accountable those who allegedly support the M23 movement and violate commitments made under the Washington Accords on the Great Lakes Region.
U.S. authorities said continued support for the armed group is fueling violence and threatening stability across the Great Lakes Region of Africa.
The statement stressed that all parties involved in the Washington Accords must honour their obligations in order to restore peace.
As part of those commitments, the U.S. urged the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to take immediate steps to neutralize the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR) and other allied armed groups operating in the region.
At the same time, Washington called on Rwanda to withdraw its troops and military equipment from Congolese territory.
The U.S. said meaningful progress toward these steps would help unlock the vast economic opportunities available within the Great Lakes region.
Officials warned that individuals found to be involved in activities that undermine or obstruct long-term peace efforts in the region could face consequences under U.S. immigration policy.
Under the visa restriction framework, the U.S. Secretary of State has the authority to deny entry into the United States to foreign nationals whose presence could pose serious foreign policy concerns.
The restrictions may also extend to certain family members of the affected individuals.
