U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday December 4th praised the leaders of Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda for signing a historic peace and economic cooperation agreement aimed at ending decades of conflict in eastern Congo. The accord, negotiated under U.S. mediation and signed in Washington, renews hopes for stability in a region long plagued by violence.
At the signing, Presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame pledged commitment to disarmament, troop withdrawal, and regional economic integration. The agreement also opens the door for U.S. access to Congo’s mineral‑rich regions, a major factor behind Washington’s push, as outlined by the White House.
Despite the optimism, the situation on the ground remains fragile: clashes between the Congolese army and the rebel group M23 continue in parts of South Kivu, raising doubts about the immediate impact of the deal. Observers warn that success will depend on full compliance by all parties, including rebel groups, and meaningful steps toward demobilization and justice.
President Trump described the moment as “a great day for Africa, a great day for the world,” affirming U.S. readiness to support post‑agreement reconstruction and economic investment. Whether the accord will translate into lasting peace or simply reshuffle alliances especially in contest for mineral wealth remains uncertain.
