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US-backed Congo peace deal gains global support, marking a pivotal moment in efforts to end decades of violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The agreement, signed in Washington on June 27 by the foreign ministers of Rwanda and the DRC, has been hailed by global leaders as a breakthrough in one of Africa’s most protracted and deadly conflicts.
Brokered by the United States with support from Qatar and the African Union, the deal commits both nations to cease support for armed groups, notably the M23 and FDLR militias, and sets a timeline for the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from eastern Congo. It also establishes a joint security coordination mechanism and lays the foundation for regional economic integration, with a focus on critical mineral supply chains.
President Donald Trump, who hosted the signing ceremony at the White House, described the event as “a wonderful day” and emphasized the strategic benefits for the United States. “Today, the violence and destruction comes to an end, and the entire region begins a new chapter of hope and opportunity,” he said, adding that the U.S. would gain access to valuable mineral rights in Congo, a country rich in cobalt, lithium, and tantalum.
The peace deal comes after a surge in fighting earlier this year, when M23 rebels—widely believed to be backed by Rwanda—captured key cities including Goma and Bukavu. While Rwanda denies direct involvement, the agreement calls for the “neutralization” of the FDLR, a Hutu rebel group linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe said ending support for Hutu militants should be the “first order of business,” while Congolese Foreign Minister Therese Kayikwamba Wagner called the deal “a rare chance to turn the page.”
The United Nations welcomed the agreement, with Secretary-General António Guterres calling it “a significant step toward de-escalation, peace and stability.” The African Union Commission also praised the deal, and Germany described it as “excellent news,” urging swift implementation.
However, not all reactions were positive. Nobel laureate Denis Mukwege warned that the deal risks rewarding aggression and legitimizing the plunder of Congolese resources. “This seems like a trigger-happy proposition and cannot establish lasting peace without justice and reparation,” said Christian Moleka, a political scientist at the Congolese think tank Dypol.
The M23 rebel group, which was not directly involved in the negotiations, has expressed skepticism. Spokesperson Oscar Balinda stated that the deal “doesn’t concern the rebels,” while Corneille Nangaa, leader of the Congo River Alliance, said any agreement made without their participation is “against us.”
Despite these concerns, the peace deal is being viewed as a strategic win for the U.S., which aims to counter China’s dominance in Africa’s mineral sector. Chinese companies have long been key players in Congo’s mining industry, and the U.S. hopes to secure supply chains for critical minerals essential to technology and defense.
The agreement also includes a provision for a regional economic framework to be launched within 90 days, aimed at attracting Western investment and boosting trade. Analysts say the success of the deal will depend on its implementation and the ability of both countries to honor their commitments.
For now, the signing represents a rare moment of optimism in a region scarred by decades of war. Whether it leads to lasting peace or becomes another failed attempt remains to be seen—but the world is watching.