The US is spearheading a new peace initiative to address the protracted conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with President Donald Trump set to host key leaders in the region, including DRC's Félix Tshisekedi and Rwanda's Paul Kagame. This move comes in light of the DRC's vast mineral wealth—vital for US technology that finds its way mostly to China. The World Peace Foundation's Prof. Alex de Waal highlighted the administration's dual objectives of ending violence and securing mineral deals that align with US interests. Critics, however, caution that the DRC risks losing sovereignty over its resources, recalling similar exploitative arrangements seen with other nations. The conflict has intensified in recent months, with the M23 rebel group gaining ground and posing significant challenges to peace efforts. Under the proposed deal, a new security framework between the DRC and Rwanda could reshape regional dynamics, but past failures raise questions about the efficacy of the US's approach amid ongoing tensions.
As negotiations progress, the DRC's government aims to establish partnerships while ensuring that the country does not find itself trapped in lopsided agreements. While the prospect of peace offers hope, analysts warn of the historical complexities that accompany such initiatives.
As negotiations progress, the DRC's government aims to establish partnerships while ensuring that the country does not find itself trapped in lopsided agreements. While the prospect of peace offers hope, analysts warn of the historical complexities that accompany such initiatives.
