In late 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump hosted the presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda to sign a peace accord aimed at ending the long-running and deadly conflict in eastern congo. International security has turned on its head as then, following the U.S. operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and U.S. threats to annex Greenland over critical minerals.
two key factors make the Congo-Rwanda peace deal still highly relevant for U.S. foreign policy. But for the United States to realize tangible benefits from the Trump-brokered deal, his administration will need to ratchet up its financial pressure with more decisive action.
In late 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump hosted the presidents of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda to sign a peace accord aimed at ending the long-running and deadly conflict in eastern Congo. international security has turned on its head since then, following the U.S. operation to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and U.S. threats to annex Greenland over critical minerals.
Two key factors make the Congo-Rwanda peace deal still highly relevant for U.S. foreign policy. But for the United States to realize tangible benefits from the Trump-brokered deal, his administration will need to ratchet up its financial pressure with more decisive action.
First, critical minerals are at the heart of why the administration has taken such an interest in the DRC. it is the world’s largest producer of cobalt and tantalum; the second-largest producer of copper; and has large concentrations of lithium, tin, and gold. American companies are now in talks with the DRC goverment over critical mineral mines, and a U.S.-backed venture has already started shipping copper to the United States.
But continued conflict, particularly driven by Rwanda’s ongoing intervention in Congo’s east, creates instability and prevents U.S. companies from accessing several major mines. A few low-cost, targeted steps by the administration would help secure greater stability a
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Despite a peace agreement signed in December 2024 between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, and a regional economic integration framework agreement,the conflict is worsening.The M23 considerably expanded its territory in 2025, and the DRC government collaborates with the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of rwanda, the remnants of the Rwandan genocidaires from 1994, and deadly armed groups such as the Wazalendo. A continued kleptocratic system, escalating repression, and an inability or unwillingness to protect civilians all fall on the DRC government.
A major reason for the continued fighting, though not the only one, is money.M23 controls crucial gold and critical minerals mines,looting $70 million worth of gold from one mine alone since May using Rwandan technicians. The rebels have smuggled gold and tantalum to Rwanda, and Rwanda is estimated to have to exported a record Table of Contents The ongoing conflict in eastern DRC is fueled by competition over mineral resources and involves multiple state and non-state actors. The United States has been involved in diplomatic efforts, notably the “Trump-brokered Washington Accords,” aimed at de-escalation and stabilization. As of January 27, 2026, the situation remains volatile, with continued reports of violence and displacement despite ongoing peace initiatives. U.S. Department of State – Democratic Republic of the CongoConflict Dynamics & Resource Exploitation
The conflict is characterized by the exploitation of minerals, particularly gold, coltan, and cobalt, which are critical for the global technology supply chain. Armed groups profit from illegal mining operations, and the gold supply chain is particularly opaque, with notable amounts being smuggled through neighboring countries. A 2023 report by the United Nations Group of Experts on the DRC documented extensive evidence of illicit gold trade and the involvement of Rwandan actors. UN Security Council – Final Report of the Group of experts on the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The UAE has also emerged as a key transit point for conflict gold. Global Witness – Conflict Gold and the UAE
the Washington Accords & Regional Peace Initiatives
The Washington Accords, facilitated by the Trump administration, aimed to address tensions between the DRC and Rwanda. U.S. Department of State – Regional Economic Integration Framework These agreements included provisions for economic cooperation and security dialog. However, implementation has been slow, and accusations of continued Rwandan support for armed groups in eastern DRC persist. The East african Community Regional Peace Initiative (EACRPF) has also been involved in mediation efforts, but its effectiveness has been limited. East African Community – Peace and Security
Justice and Accountability Mechanisms
Establishing credible justice mechanisms is crucial for addressing impunity and fostering lasting peace. The DRC government has expressed commitment to prosecuting war crimes and crimes against humanity, but capacity remains a significant challenge. The International Criminal Court (ICC) has been investigating crimes committed in the DRC since 2004, and several individuals have been convicted. International Criminal Court – Situation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo A national dialogue, as suggested in the source, is considered important, but must be inclusive and transparent to be effective.brookings Institution – National Dialogue in the DRC
Role of the Private Sector & Due Diligence
The private sector, particularly financial institutions and gold refiners, has a responsibility to prevent the trade of conflict minerals. Enhanced due diligence measures are needed to trace the origin of gold purchased from Rwanda, Uganda, and the UAE. The OECD Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of minerals from Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas provides a framework for companies to identify and mitigate risks. OECD – Due Diligence Guidance for Responsible Supply Chains of Minerals
U.S. Policy Options & Potential Repercussions
The U.S. government has several policy options to promote stability in eastern DRC. These include targeted sanctions against individuals and entities involved in illicit activities, support for strengthening DRC governance and security institutions, and diplomatic pressure on regional actors to cease support for armed groups. Imposing financial repercussions for undermining peace agreements, as suggested in the source, could be an effective deterrent, but requires careful consideration to avoid unintended consequences. Securing access to critical minerals is a key U.S. interest, but this must be balanced with the need to promote human rights and responsible sourcing.
