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President Felix Tshisekedi of the Democratic Republic of Congo has said that the U.S.-mediated peace deal signed with Rwanda in June has so far failed to bring calm to eastern Congo, where violence continues despite diplomatic efforts.
Speaking in New York on Monday, Mr Tshisekedi acknowledged the role of the United States in trying to end the conflict, thanking President Donald Trump for his intervention. However, he stressed that the fighting persists, particularly in areas affected by the activities of the M23 rebel group.
On June 27, American mediators brokered the deal between Kinshasa and Kigali, with the aim of halting what Washington and United Nations experts say is Rwanda’s support for the M23 rebels. The deal is also linked to broader U.S. plans to stabilise the region, attract Western investment, and ensure security in mineral-rich areas. Congo’s eastern provinces are home to vast deposits of tantalum, gold, cobalt, copper and lithium—resources considered vital for the global clean energy transition.
The Trump administration has set a deadline for parts of the peace deal to be implemented this month. Yet, President Tshisekedi expressed frustration at Rwanda’s continued role in the conflict.
“Rwanda pretended to withdraw their troops, but actually, they are increasing their support to M23,” he told reporters.
He added that while Congo appreciates U.S. mediation, the country’s resources will not be compromised. “This does not mean that we will auction our mineral resources,” Tshisekedi said.
Instead, he outlined his government’s focus on building the mining value chain, improving infrastructure, and prioritising energy development. He revealed that Congo had already signed a strategic partnership with China and was in talks with the United States for a similar arrangement, though details were not provided.
The peace process remains delicate. Congolese officials maintain that its success depends on Rwanda halting all support to M23, which Kinshasa accuses of committing atrocities against civilians. Rwanda, however, has repeatedly denied backing the group, insisting its security actions are defensive.
Earlier this year, in March, Qatar facilitated an unexpected meeting between President Tshisekedi and his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame. That meeting produced a call for a ceasefire and direct talks with M23. But progress has been slow, with both sides missing an August 18 deadline to finalise a peace agreement.
The rebels have demanded the release of prisoners before further negotiations, while Congolese officials say such a move can only happen after a formal agreement is signed. On Monday, Mr Tshisekedi said there had been some progress, noting that a prisoner exchange may soon take place.
“As a matter of fact, we are waiting for the Red Cross to give us a go ahead to proceed with the exchange of prisoners,” he explained.
The developments underscore the fragile nature of peace efforts in eastern Congo, where insecurity threatens millions of civilians and undermines prospects for economic stability despite the country’s immense natural wealth.
