By Black Star News
Photos: YouTube Screenshots
The Trump Administration has just sanctioned four groups connected to the critical minerals trade in eastern DR Congo—as the Rwandan-backed M23 paramilitary rebels and the DR Congo army argue over who is responsible of violating the recently US-brokered peace deal.
The sanctioned entities are: Pareco-FF, an armed group that controlled the Rubaya coltan mining site until 2024; Congolese mining company CDMC, which allegedly sold minerals from the Rubaya site; and two Chinese mining companies: East Rise and Star Dragon, both accused of buying minerals from Pareco-FF.
Coltan is a essential mineral needed to make computers, cell phones, and other electronics. Eastern DR Congo is known for having a extremely high concentration of coltan.
Tammy Bruce, State Department spokeswoman, said, “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.”
Despite the last peace deal agreement, violence has continued on both sides. On Friday, it was reported that fighting intensified around the town of Mulamba, in the South Kivu province. From Friday to Monday, M23 attacked areas under the control pro-Kinshasa militia and army forces.
These developments are occurring as the Aug. 18 date nears when DRC government and M23 have agreed to sign a permanent peace deal.
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