The Fragile Promise of Washington: Can Trump’s DRC-Rwanda Accord Stem the Tide of Conflict and Secure Critical Minerals?
Despite ongoing clashes in eastern Congo, a deal brokered by Donald Trump aims to end hostilities and unlock access to vital resources. But with fighting continuing and cautious reactions from regional leaders, the “Washington Accords” face an uphill battle – and could reshape the geopolitical landscape of Central Africa.
A Peace Deal Forged in Renamed Halls
On December 4th, 2025, former US President Donald Trump presided over a signing ceremony at the newly christened “Donald Trump Institute for Peace” – formerly the United States Institute of Peace – bringing together Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame. The agreement, touted by Trump as a “great miracle” and “powerful and detailed,” seeks to address decades of conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and its complex relationship with Rwanda. While Trump envisioned a future of “hugging and holding hands” and economic prosperity, both Tshisekedi and Kagame expressed measured optimism, acknowledging the “demanding” and “difficult” path ahead.
The Three Pillars of the Washington Accords
The agreement rests on three key components. First, a cessation of hostilities, including a ceasefire, disarmament initiatives, the return of displaced persons, and accountability measures for those responsible for abuses. Second, a framework for regional economic integration. And crucially, bilateral agreements between the US and both the DRC and Rwanda concerning the exploitation of strategic minerals – resources vital to cutting-edge technologies and in which the DRC is particularly rich. This focus on resource access is a defining characteristic of the deal, signaling a clear US interest in securing supply chains.
The Shadow of Ongoing Conflict: M23 and the Eastern DRC
However, the signing ceremony occurred against a backdrop of continued violence. Fighting between the M23 rebel group – widely believed to be supported by Rwanda, despite denials – and the Congolese army, backed by various militias, raged in the South Kivu province. Reports from the ground, including those from AFP journalists, detailed heavy and light weapons fire near Kamanyola and Kaziba, even as the agreement was being formalized in Washington. This immediate contradiction casts a long shadow over the accord’s prospects. The M23’s alleged links to Kigali, and the reciprocal accusations of ceasefire violations, highlight the deep-seated mistrust that permeates the region.
The Mineral Connection: Cobalt, Lithium, and Geopolitical Stakes
The DRC holds an estimated 70% of the world’s cobalt reserves, a critical component in electric vehicle batteries. It also possesses significant deposits of lithium, another essential battery material, as well as other strategically important minerals like coltan. This abundance has made the DRC a focal point for global powers seeking to secure their supply chains, particularly as demand for these minerals surges with the transition to renewable energy. The US, China, and the European Union are all vying for influence in the region, and the Washington Accords represent a clear attempt by the US to gain a competitive edge. The Council on Foreign Relations provides further analysis on the DRC conflict and its geopolitical implications.
Beyond Ceasefires: Addressing the Root Causes of Instability
While a ceasefire is a necessary first step, lasting peace requires addressing the underlying causes of conflict. These include ethnic tensions, competition for resources, weak governance, and the proliferation of armed groups. The agreement’s provisions for “justice” against perpetrators of abuses are a positive sign, but their implementation will be crucial. Furthermore, the economic integration framework must be inclusive and benefit local communities, rather than simply enriching external actors. Without addressing these fundamental issues, the Washington Accords risk becoming another failed attempt at peacemaking in a region plagued by instability.
The Role of Regional Actors: Qatar and Beyond
The US isn’t the only mediator involved. Qatar has been leading parallel mediation efforts in Doha, and its continued engagement will be vital. Regional dynamics are complex, and the involvement of other actors, such as Uganda and Angola, will also influence the outcome. A truly sustainable peace will require a coordinated approach that takes into account the interests and concerns of all stakeholders.
Looking Ahead: A Fragile Hope and Potential Pitfalls
The Washington Accords represent a potentially significant development in the DRC-Rwanda conflict, but their success is far from guaranteed. The ongoing fighting, the cautious tone of regional leaders, and the complex geopolitical dynamics all pose significant challenges. The agreement’s focus on securing access to critical minerals adds another layer of complexity, raising concerns about potential exploitation and the exacerbation of existing inequalities. Whether this deal will truly usher in a “new path” – as Tshisekedi hopes – or prove to be another fleeting moment of optimism remains to be seen. The next six months will be critical in determining whether the fragile promise of Washington can withstand the test of reality.
What are your predictions for the long-term impact of the Washington Accords on the DRC and the broader region? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
