The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda are scheduled to sign a peace agreement in Washington, D.C. on June 27, according to a joint statement released alongside the U.S. State Department.
The accord aims to bring an end to the ongoing hostilities in eastern DRC, where conflict has sharply intensified in recent months.
The agreement, already drafted by technical teams from both nations, outlines key commitments, including mutual respect for national borders, a cessation of hostilities, and provisions for the withdrawal, disarmament, and conditional integration of armed non-state actors.
The United States played a central role in mediating the deal, which builds upon a set of principles previously agreed upon in April.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to attend the signing ceremony, which marks a significant milestone in the Trump administration’s diplomatic push to stabilize eastern Congo and foster greater Western economic involvement in the mineral-rich region.
Violence in eastern Congo has surged this year, with M23 rebels—allegedly supported by Rwanda—taking control of strategic cities such as Goma and Bukavu.
DR Congo and Rwanda Set to Sign Peace Deal in Washington Amid Escalating Tensions
The joint statement identifies M23 as part of a broader alliance known as the Congo River Alliance, but it remains uncertain whether all armed factions will comply with the new accord.
Previous peace efforts have struggled. In 2024, Rwandan and Congolese negotiators reached tentative agreements—facilitated by Angola—on withdrawing troops and coordinating action against the Rwandan Hutu militia FDLR.
However, those agreements were never formally adopted by the countries’ leadership, and Angola withdrew from its mediation role in March 2025 due to continued setbacks.
The violence has displaced thousands, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation.
The Congolese government maintains that Rwanda continues to arm and support M23 rebels—a claim Rwanda denies, insisting that its military activities are strictly defensive.
As the June 27 signing approaches, international and regional stakeholders are watching closely, hoping the deal will offer a path toward lasting peace in one of Africa’s most volatile regions.
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Source-TheZimbabwetimes
