US imposes sanctions on Congolese militia over illegal trade
The United States has imposed sanctions on a Congolese militia, a mining company, and two Hong Kong-based exporters over their alleged roles in the illegal trade of critical minerals.
The measures mark the latest move by President Donald Trump’s administration to push for peace in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where Rwanda-backed M23 rebels launched a major offensive earlier this year, sparking violence that has killed thousands.
The U.S. Treasury Department identified the Coalition des Patriotes Resistants Congolais–Forces de Frappe (PARECO-FF) as a militia group controlling mining operations in the Rubaya region, which supplies about 15% of the world’s coltan. Coltan, refined into tantalum, is a vital component in electronics such as mobile phones and computers.
Illegal trade
Also sanctioned is the Congolese mining firm Cooperative des Artisanaux Miniers du Congo (CDMC), accused of selling minerals sourced from militia-held areas. Hong Kong-based East Rise Corporation and Star Dragon Corporation were targeted for allegedly purchasing these illicit materials.
A senior U.S. official said the sanctions are intended “to make the licit trade that much more appealing,” adding that lasting stability could open the door to substantial Western investment, given the DRC’s rich deposits of tantalum, gold, cobalt, copper, and lithium.
The United Nations recently reported that PARECO-FF provided support to the Congolese army in late 2024 and early 2025. None of the sanctioned parties, nor the Congolese government, had issued responses at the time of reporting.
Washington is currently mediating talks between the DRC and Rwanda, while Qatar hosts direct negotiations between Kinshasa and the M23. The U.S. maintains existing sanctions on M23, which it also accuses of smuggling minerals.
