DRC and Rwanda Sign US-Brokered Peace Deal Amid Doubts Over Success

• DRC and Rwanda have signed a peace deal brokered by the US.
• This peace agreement seeks to end decades of violence in eastern DRC.
• M23 rebel group creates doubts about the deal’s enforceability.
• Agreement includes a commitment for Rwandan troop withdrawal within 90 days.
• US involvement hinted at returning mineral rights from Congo.

Overview of the Peace Deal Between DRC and Rwanda

A new peace deal has emerged as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda signed an agreement, reportedly brokered by US President Donald Trump. During his announcement, Trump described it as a significant achievement for resolving what he called, “one of the worst wars anyone’s ever seen”. The surrounding diplomacy, which also included Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s remarks, has raised expectations, particularly with the possibility of significant mineral rights from Congo making their way to the US—something Trump was eager to highlight.

Details and Impact of the Peace Agreement

The agreement aims to secure peace in eastern DRC, a region troubled by years of violence and conflict, resulting in around six million deaths. This signing between DRC’s Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner and Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe occurred under the watchful eyes of US officials in Washington. It includes a specific commitment that Rwandan troops will withdraw from eastern DRC within 90 days, as per the terms outlined in a 2024 deal.

Skepticism Surrounding the Agreement’s Future

Despite these hopeful developments, doubts persist, particularly from the rebel group M23, which has been a key player in the conflict. Their non-involvement in this peace deal and suggestion that it may not bind them adds a layer of uncertainty to the agreement’s potential success. Wagner acknowledged the difficulties ahead, stressing that the agreement needs to be taken seriously for the benefit of those impacted by the prolonged strife, while Nduhungirehe admitted that a history of unfulfilled promises raises questions about this agreement’s durability.

In summary, the signing of the new peace deal between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda represents a potentially pivotal moment in a long-standing conflict that has taken millions of lives. However, ongoing skepticism, especially from armed groups involved in the conflict, poses a significant challenge to its implementation. The coming weeks and months will reveal whether this agreement can lead to a lasting peace or would simply be another fleeting moment in a protracted history of war.