Rwanda condemns new US sanctions

The Rwandan government has condemned new sanctions imposed on it by the United States.

On Monday, the US Treasury Department announced it was imposing sanctions on Rwanda's military, accusing Rwanda of violating a peace agreement in the Democratic Republic of Congo. 

Rwanda responded, saying the sanctions unfairly target one party in the peace process and misrepresent the situation in eastern DR Congo.

In a statement, Kigali accused forces in the DR Congo of violating ceasefire agreements through frequent and indiscriminate drone attacks and ground offensives, which have resulted in numerous casualties.

"Protecting our country is a badge of honor which the Rwanda Defense Force carries very proudly," the statement said.

The DR Congo government expressed its "deep appreciation" of the US, calling the sanctions "a clear signal of support" for the respect of its "sovereignty and territorial integrity."

Kigali said it remains committed to the disengagement of forces in tandem with the DR Congo implementing their obligations and welcomed the resumption of the implementation process, including the Joint Oversight Committee.

It also called for a fair approach from all partners and reaffirmed its commitment to every aspect of the Washington Accords, including the Regional Economic Integration Framework.