Kabila served as President from 2001 until 2019. During his presidency, he extended his term beyond constitutional limits by delaying elections scheduled for 2016. The U.S. Department of the Treasury stated that Kabila supported the M23 and Congo River Alliance (AFC), both of which have contributed to unrest in eastern DRC.

Key facts about the sanctions:

• Kabila’s assets in the U.S. have been frozen due to the sanctions.
• American citizens and companies are barred from doing business with him.
• Kabila has provided financial support to AFC to influence the political situation in eastern DRC.

Kabila has been living in Goma under M23 protection since 2025. He reportedly encouraged troops from the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (FARDC) to defect and join AFC forces in eastern DRC. Although he attempted to launch attacks from outside DRC on FARDC, these efforts were unsuccessful.

U.S. officials indicated that violations of these sanctions may result in civil or criminal penalties, including fines up to $1,000,000. Scott Bessent, a spokesperson for the U.S., emphasized that those who continue to sow instability will be held accountable.

The sanctions against Kabila are part of a broader initiative aimed at maintaining a peace deal between Rwanda and DRC signed in December. However, uncertainties remain regarding how these actions will impact ongoing conflicts within the region.

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