Congo's government and the M23 rebel group have agreed to return to peace talks in Qatar, under renewed pressure from the United States to resolve the ongoing conflict in eastern Congo. The talks are part of a broader U.S.-led diplomatic effort aimed at stabilizing the region, which is rich in valuable minerals such as cobalt, copper, gold, and lithium.
M23 rebels, who are believed to be backed by Rwanda, now control more territory than ever in their recent surge in eastern Congo. The violence has killed thousands and displaced hundreds of thousands. The conflict traces back to tensions following the Rwandan genocide nearly 30 years ago.
Last week, the foreign ministers of Rwanda and Congo signed a peace agreement in Washington, pledging to implement a 2024 plan for Rwandan troop withdrawal from Congo within 90 days. U.S. President Donald Trump has taken an active role in the mediation process, with plans to host Congolese President Felix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Washington later in July to finalize what Trump’s Africa adviser, Massad Boulos, has called the Washington Accord.
Boulos expressed optimism about progress and hopes the Doha peace deal will be finalized before the Washington meeting. However, M23 officials have criticized the Congolese government for stalling, saying Kinshasa has failed to meet key preconditions such as releasing detained M23 fighters and reopening banks in rebel-held areas.
The United Nations released a report indicating Rwanda has direct control over M23 operations, a claim Rwanda denies, citing its security concerns over Hutu militia groups near its border.
Despite challenges, U.S. officials believe there is serious intent on both sides to reach a peace agreement that could unlock billions in Western investment for the conflict-affected region.
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