The latest reports on the escalation of violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are alarming. The M23 rebels, backed by Rwandan forces, have seized control of the city of Goma and are committing severe human rights violations, including the execution of children and the rape of women in front of their families. These atrocities are causing mass displacements and worsening the humanitarian crisis.

It is essential that the European Union (EU), the United States (USA), and the United Kingdom (UK) take immediate action to halt Rwanda’s support for M23 and restore peace in the region. The international community cannot stand by and watch innocent civilians fall victim to violence and exploitation.

We call for the immediate suspension of all trade agreements with Rwanda, particularly the agreement signed in February 2024 on sustainable value chains for critical raw materials. There is overwhelming evidence that Rwanda benefits from the illegal exploitation and smuggling of minerals from the DRC, further fueling the conflict. The EU must ensure that its trade relations do not contribute to the financing of violence and human rights violations.

Furthermore, targeted sanctions should be imposed on Rwandan government officials and military personnel who are directly or indirectly involved in supporting M23. It is crucial that those responsible for these crimes are held accountable.

The humanitarian situation in the DRC also demands urgent attention. Hundreds of thousands of people are fleeing their homes and are in desperate need of assistance. The international community must strengthen its support for humanitarian organizations on the ground to provide life-saving aid to affected populations.

It is time for the EU, the USA, and the UK to act together with determination to end the violence in eastern DRC, stop Rwanda’s support for M23, and restore peace and stability in the region.