A new peace agreement brokered by the United States between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo aims to address one of Africa’s most persistent conflicts, though significant challenges remain. The mineral-rich eastern regions of DR Congo have endured over three decades of violence, with roots tracing back to the 1994 Rwandan genocide that killed approximately 800,000 people, primarily Tutsis.
The conflict escalated dramatically in early 2025 when the M23 rebel group, composed primarily of ethnic Tutsis, captured several strategic cities including Goma—a vital trading hub of over one million people—and Bukavu. The group’s rapid territorial expansion displaced thousands and resulted in numerous casualties while threatening to push toward the distant capital Kinshasa.
International observers and multiple governments including the US, UK, and France have presented substantial evidence indicating Rwanda’s military support for the M23 rebels, including up to 4,000 Rwandan troops allegedly fighting alongside them. Rwanda denies these allegations, claiming defensive measures are necessary against the FDLR—a Hutu militia group containing perpetrators of the genocide that remains active in eastern Congo.
The Washington agreement requires both nations to cease support for armed groups, refrain from aggression, and facilitate disarmament. Notably absent from the deal is the M23 itself, though separate Qatar-mediated talks are underway between the rebels and Congolese government. The pact also includes economic provisions encouraging expanded foreign investment in critical mineral supply chains, raising concerns about potential resource exploitation.
UN peacekeeping forces (Monusco) remain deployed despite local criticism and planned withdrawals, while regional military efforts from the Southern African Development Community have proven ineffective against the M23 advance. The success of this latest diplomatic initiative remains uncertain amid complex historical tensions and competing economic interests in this resource-rich region.