The United States is leading a high-stakes diplomatic effort to secure peace between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), with the key condition that Rwandan troops withdraw from eastern Congo.
This proposal, according to diplomats familiar with the talks, is likely to face pushback from Kigali, which sees the region as a breeding ground for hostile militias threatening its national security.
President Donald Trump is said to be personally invested in resolving the long-running conflict as part of a broader plan to unlock billions of dollars in Western investments tied to Congo’s rich mineral belt.
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The eastern region holds massive reserves of cobalt, lithium, copper, tantalum, and gold—resources critical to the global tech and energy sectors.
Trump’s top adviser on African affairs, Massad Boulos, recently met with Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi in Kinshasa. Following the meeting, Boulos indicated that both sides were making progress on a framework to stabilise the region and open the door for economic development.
Sources suggest Washington is pushing for a peace deal within two months—a timeline many observers see as ambitious, given the deep-rooted tensions.
A draft agreement seen by Reuters outlines specific demands for Kigali: full withdrawal of troops, weapons, and military equipment from Congolese territory.
Four diplomats familiar with the matter confirmed that the document originated from American negotiators and builds on an earlier set of principles signed in Washington. That prior accord, endorsed by both nations’ foreign ministers and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, urged mutual respect for sovereignty and security.
On the ground, however, the situation remains fragile. Western officials estimate Rwanda has between 7,000 and 12,000 troops operating in eastern Congo, allegedly backing the M23 rebel group.
In recent weeks, M23 fighters have captured two key cities, raising fears of a broader regional war.
Rwanda continues to reject claims of supporting M23, instead insisting its forces are targeting militants tied to the 1994 genocide—groups it accuses the Congolese government of failing to control. Despite mounting pressure, Rwanda has not officially replied to the draft peace terms.
Talks are expected to continue in Washington this week, with technical teams from both countries meeting to review the proposal.
A senior Congolese official, speaking on condition of anonymity, accused Rwanda of delaying the process, stressing that a full withdrawal remains a firm condition for peace.
