How Trump wants the US to cash in on mineral-rich DR Congo's peace deal

July 27, 2025

The Trump administration is leading a controversial peace initiative to end the long-standing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, which has involved neighboring Rwanda. This effort is driven by U.S. interest in DR Congo's estimated $25 trillion in mineral reserves, which include critical materials needed for electronics, electric vehicles, and military hardware. President Trump has announced that the United States will gain mineral rights from Congo as part of the peace deal signed on June 27, 2023, which includes plans for regional economic integration between DR Congo and Rwanda.

Who is affected

People in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo who have experienced decades of conflict that has killed thousands and displaced millions
The populations of DR Congo and Rwanda, particularly those in border regions
Local communities in mineral-rich areas of DR Congo
Mining companies and workers in the region
International technology companies dependent on Congo's minerals
The M23 rebel group and people living in territories they control
The FDLR militia and communities affected by their presence

What action is being taken

The Trump administration is actively mediating peace negotiations between DR Congo and Rwanda
Qatar is simultaneously leading parallel mediation efforts focused on domestic issues between DR Congo's government and the M23 rebels
A "security co-ordination mechanism" is being established within 30 days of the June 27 peace deal
A ceasefire is expected to take effect, with comprehensive peace agreement negotiations underway
The United States is working to secure mineral rights from DR Congo as part of the peace process
Negotiations for a "regional economic integration framework" between DR Congo and Rwanda are proceeding

Why it matters

The conflict has killed thousands of people and displaced millions over more than 30 years
DR Congo possesses an estimated $25 trillion in mineral reserves crucial for technology and green energy, including cobalt, copper, lithium, manganese, and tantalum
The peace initiative could potentially stop the smuggling of minerals from DR Congo through Rwanda
The outcome could reshape regional economic relationships and mineral supply chains
The United States is competing with China, which has already secured access to many of Congo's minerals
DR Congo risks compromising sovereignty over its mineral resources through long-term deals
This represents a new model of peace-making that combines "populist performance with commercial deal-making"

What's next

President Trump is expected to host the leaders of DR Congo and Rwanda in the coming weeks to finalize the peace agreement
A comprehensive peace agreement between the DR Congo government and M23 is scheduled to be signed by August 18
The implementation of a "security co-ordination mechanism" within 30 days of the June 27 deal
Negotiations over the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from eastern DR Congo and neutralization of the FDLR militia
Development of the "regional economic integration framework" between DR Congo and Rwanda

Read full article from source: BBC