US Sanctions Target Conflict Minerals Trade in DR Congo

The US has imposed sanctions on four entities tied to illegal mining in eastern DR Congo as part of efforts to enforce a fragile peace deal. Targets include the militia PARECO-FF, accused of illicit coltan mining in Rubya, as well as Congolese firm CDMC and two Chinese exporters, East Rise and Star Dragon. The move aims to disrupt funding for armed groups profiting from coltan—a vital mineral for electronics—amid ongoing clashes between Congolese forces and Rwanda-backed M23 rebels. Analysts doubt that the sanctions will immediately curb militia activity but believe they could pressure the companies funding the conflict. The sanctions come as the Trump administration pushes for a final peace agreement by mid-August, following a tentative ceasefire signed in June. However, recent clashes threaten progress, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

SEMAFOR