Washington, DC - The United States is gravely concerned about the ongoing crisis in Burundi and the potential for additional violence and has imposed new targeted sanctions against four individuals whose actions threaten the peace, security, and stability of Burundi.

The Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control today took this action under Executive Order 13712 relating to the situation in Burundi, bringing the total number individuals sanctioned under the Executive Order to eight. We continue to support efforts to hold those accountable who violate and abuse human rights and undermine stability in Burundi.

Any effort to promote violence or provide outside support to armed elements in Burundi, or to sanctioned individuals, is unacceptable and can lead to additional sanctions under the Executive Order. We encourage authorities in the region to fully investigate any and all reports of recruitment of Burundian refugees and outside support to Burundian armed elements.

Our senior officials remain engaged at the highest levels with regional leaders to support immediate, internationally-mediated peace talks. The United States continues to call upon Burundian President Nkurunziza, his government, and the opposition to de-escalate tensions, refrain from further violence, and fully participate in talks. We stand ready to support the African Union and the region in taking all necessary steps – including possible deployment of an intervention force – to prevent further violence and achieve a consensual, political resolution to this crisis.