The United Kingdom is preparing to impose sanctions on Rwanda in response to the ongoing conflict in neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to a UK Foreign Office minister. The move comes amid growing international pressure on Rwanda over allegations that it supports the M23 rebel group, which has been linked to the humanitarian crisis in eastern Congo.

The conflict in Congo has led to a devastating humanitarian crisis, with millions displaced and thousands killed. Since January, approximately 7,000 people have died in fighting in eastern DRC, with around 3,000 deaths reported in Goma alone. Nearly 450,000 people were left without shelter after 90 displacement camps were destroyed.

Rwanda has repeatedly denied allegations that it supports M23, instead accusing the DRC of harbouring the FDLR, an armed group formed by Hutu militants who participated in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. Rwandan President Paul Kagame insists that his country's troops are acting in self-defence against hostile groups operating from within Congo.

However, the international community has continued to apply pressure on Rwanda to address the allegations. On Thursday, the U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on James Kabarebe, a close ally of Kagame, accusing him of serving as “a Rwandan government liaison” to M23. Rwanda has rejected the sanctions as unjustified.

The UK's decision to impose sanctions on Rwanda marks a significant escalation of international pressure on the country to address its alleged role in the Congo conflict. The move is likely to have significant implications for Rwanda's economy and its relationships with other countries in the region.

The conflict in Congo has been ongoing for years, with various rebel groups vying for control of the mineral-rich region. The M23 rebel group has been accused of committing human rights abuses and war crimes, and its seizure of large areas of eastern Congo has led to widespread displacement and suffering.

The UK's decision to impose sanctions on Rwanda is likely to be seen as a significant step towards holding the country accountable for its alleged role in the conflict. However, it remains to be seen whether the sanctions will have the desired effect of pressuring Rwanda to change its behaviour and work towards a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

The situation in Congo remains dire, with millions of people displaced and in need of humanitarian assistance. The international community must continue to apply pressure on all parties involved in the conflict to work towards a peaceful resolution and address the humanitarian crisis.