The United States has imposed sanctions on the former president of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Joseph Kabila, accusing him of providing material support to armed groups driving violence in the country’s eastern region. 

The sanctions include freezing any assets Mr Kabila may have in the United States and prohibiting him from conducting transactions through the U.S. financial system. 

In a statement issued on Thursday, the State Department spokesman, Thomas Pigott, said the sanctions were imposed under Executive Order 13413, as amended by Executive Order 13671, citing Mr Kabila’s alleged support for armed groups including M23 and AFC.

Mr Pigotte added that the action targets ongoing threats to stability in the DRC, linking Mr Kabila to financial and political backing of armed factions described as principal drivers of violence and instability. 

“The United States stands with the Congolese people and calls on all regional leaders to reject those who perpetuate violence and instability. Today’s action sends a clear message: we will hold accountable anyone who obstructs peace efforts in the DRC,” he said. 

The U.S. government, however, affirmed its commitment to diplomatic solutions to end the humanitarian crisis in eastern DRC, noting the need for lasting peace and regional prosperity. 

“The Trump Administration is firmly committed to ensuring all parties uphold their commitments under the historic Washington Accords for Peace and Prosperity and Doha Framework and will use all available tools to advance lasting stability in the region. 

“The United States will continue to support diplomatic solutions that end the suffering of civilians in eastern DRC and create conditions for durable peace and prosperity across the region,” he added.