The United States has moved in to sanction the Critical Minerals Traffickers Stoking Armed Conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Reports from Washington reveal that the US is sanctioning armed groups carrying out illegal mining and supply chain actors profiteering from conflict minerals in the eastern parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The US Department of the Treasury is designating four entities producing and trading in conflict minerals in Rubaya, an expansive mining area which happens to be rich in critical minerals.
The just imposed sanctions impose consequences on actors who destabilize the eastern DR Congo.
They target one of many armed groups carrying out illegal mining operations including through forced labor and violence against civilians.
They also counter companies in the DR Congo and China that partner with armed groups to profiteer off instability to steal the mineral wealth of the DRC.
From the move, the United States is reportedly 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.
Through the peace process, being mediated by the United States, especially the Regional Economic Integration Framework, Washington supports the DR Congo and Rwanda in building a more peaceful and prosperous future.
In addition, the United States is resolved to end the exploitation of conflict minerals in the Great Lakes region.
According to the statement from the department, the United States 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.
The Department of the Treasury’s actions were taken pursuant to E.O. 13413, as amended, which authorizes the imposition of sanctions on persons who have engaged in activity which threatens the peace, security, or stability of the DR Congo or supported persons that are involved in such activities, including through the illicit trade in natural resources of the DRC.