Trump Brokers Surprise Peace Deal in Africa

Trump Brokers Surprise Peace Deal in Africa
Source: Facebook

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have signed a U.S.-brokered peace agreement in Washington, D.C., aiming to end years of violent conflict that have killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands, particularly due to the advance of the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels in eastern DRC. The deal, facilitated by the United States and Qatar, requires both countries to establish a regional economic framework within 90 days, create a joint security mechanism within 30 days, and mandates the withdrawal of thousands of Rwandan troops from the DRC within three months. Key provisions include mutual respect for territorial integrity, disengagement and disarmament of armed groups, and the repatriation of refugees and displaced persons.

While the agreement is being hailed as a historic turning point and a diplomatic success by leaders such as President Trump and Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi, skepticism remains about its ability to deliver lasting peace given the region’s history of failed accords and ongoing instability. The deal also reflects U.S. strategic interests in securing access to the DRC’s critical minerals, essential for global technology supply chains, and comes amid broader efforts to attract Western investment and counter Chinese influence in Africa. The true test of the agreement will be its implementation, particularly the disengagement of armed groups and the return of displaced families, as well as whether it can address the deep-rooted causes of conflict in the Great Lakes region.

Source: Reuters