Reacting to sanctions linked to the DRC’s mineral wealth, AFC-M23 spokesperson Lawrence Kanyuka said the group shares the principle that the country’s vast mineral resources should benefit the Congolese people, but described the latest sanctions as “selective” and counterproductive to the peace process.

"The imposition of selective sanctions at a critical stage in the ongoing peace negotiations sends a counterproductive message and does not contribute to achieving sustainable peace," the movement said.

AFC-M23 argued that the sanctions unfairly target one side of the conflict while failing to address violations committed by government forces and allied armed groups, including the FDLR genocidal force. The movement accused the government in Kinshasa of pursuing a military solution to the conflict, saying that no comparable sanctions have been imposed on actors it holds responsible for violence against civilians.

The group also expressed concern over continued attacks on Banyamulenge communities in Minembwe, saying the security situation remained alarming and required greater international attention.

According to AFC-M23, the latest U.S. measures could embolden the Congolese government to move away from political dialogue by overlooking repeated ceasefire violations and actions that hinder negotiations under the Doha Process and the Washington agreements.

The movement maintained that resolving the conflict requires an inclusive political process that addresses the root causes of instability, including poor governance, exclusion, insecurity and corruption.

"A lasting resolution to this crisis cannot be achieved through selective pressure," the statement said. "It requires a credible, inclusive, and genuine political process that addresses the root causes of the conflict."

AFC-M23 reiterated its commitment to participating in negotiations under the Doha Process and said it remained committed to protecting civilians and promoting transparent management of the DRC's natural resources for the benefit of the Congolese people.

The statement comes days after Washington announced sanctions against Kigali-based Gasabo Gold Refinery over allegations of processing gold from the conflict-affected region of eastern DRC.

Earlier in June, the United States also imposed sanctions on AFC-M23 senior commander John Imani Nzenze. Previous sanctions announced this year also targeted former Congolese President Joseph Kabila over alleged support for the AFC-M23 alliance.