President Félix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has offered the United States and European Union access to the country’s vast mineral wealth in exchange for security assistance against Rwandan-backed M23 rebels.
The DRC holds some of the world’s largest reserves of gold, tin, tantalum, and over half of the world’s cobalt—a key material for electric vehicle batteries. While China currently dominates access to Congo’s minerals, Tshisekedi is seeking Western investment, hoping it will bring security and stability.
The M23 rebels have made significant territorial gains, capturing key cities such as Goma and Bukavu. In recent battles, they seized Congolese military equipment, including tanks, artillery, and even a Su-25 attack aircraft. Tshisekedi hopes Western pressure on Rwanda will help counter the militant group’s advances.
