Congo, Rwanda Signs US-Brokered Peace Deal

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have signed a US-brokered peace deal aimed at ending decades of conflict in the mineral-rich eastern DRC.

The agreement was signed in Washington D.C. on June 27, 2025, also includes a significant component on critical minerals, allowing for increased US investment in the region’s vast reserves.

  Key aspects of the deal include:

• Cessation of Hostilities and Territorial Integrity: Both nations have agreed to respect each other’s territorial integrity, cease all hostile actions, and end support for armed groups operating in eastern Congo within 90 days. This specifically targets the neutralization of groups like the FDLR by the DRC and the withdrawal of Rwandan forces and dismantling of defensive measures by Rwanda.
• Joint Security Coordination: A Joint Security Coordination Mechanism will be established within 30 days, bringing together military and intelligence officials from both countries to track armed groups, share intelligence, and monitor compliance, with the US and Qatar serving as observers.
• Critical Minerals Partnership: A central element of the deal is the “Critical Minerals for Security and Peace” framework. This will facilitate US investment in Congolese mining and processing, aiming to secure access to essential minerals like cobalt, lithium, tantalum, and coltan, and to counter China’s dominance in this sector. The agreement links mineral access to governance, traceability, and regional cooperation.
• Humanitarian Provisions: The agreement includes provisions for the safe return of refugees and internally displaced persons, along with guarantees for humanitarian access.
• Regional Economic Integration: Within three months, the DRC and Rwanda are to launch a Regional Economic Integration Framework to boost cross-border trade, formalize mineral supply chains, and develop joint economic projects.

While hailed as a significant step towards stability, concerns remain. Human rights watchdogs have pointed out the deal’s lack of explicit provisions for accountability over war crimes, sexual violence, or illegal mining. Furthermore, the M23 rebel group, a key player in the recent escalation of violence, was not a party to the agreement and has reportedly rejected its terms, posing a potential challenge to its lasting effectiveness. The success of the deal will largely depend on robust monitoring, enforcement, and genuine buy-in from all stakeholders.