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Congolese soldiers – some of whom were captured by rebels in January – have struggled against the M23
The Democratic Republic of Congo is seeking support from the US in its fight against the advancing M23 rebels.
Recognizing President Donald Trump’s interest in transactional relationships, DR Congo is hoping to strike a deal with Washington, especially after seeing the proposed Ukraine-US mineral deal.
Reports suggest that Trump may appoint his daughter Tiffany’s father-in-law to a key role in the region.
Congolese government spokesperson Patrick Muyaya confirmed to the BBC that his country aims to involve the US and provide critical minerals in exchange.
“We can also discuss security,” he added.
Why the sudden interest in a deal?
DR Congo is facing military challenges.
M23 fighters, supported by Rwanda, have made significant advances in the mineral-rich east of the country.
Regional forces have failed to contain the rebels, who are now threatening to move westward towards Kinshasa.
President Félix Tshisekedi is exploring ways to strengthen his position.
Recent reports suggest that the Trump administration is interested in a minerals deal with DR Congo.
The Africa-USA Business Council has also reached out to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio about a possible economic and military partnership.
What’s in it for the US?
DR Congo has an estimated $24 trillion worth of untapped resources, including cobalt, gold, and copper.
The country is a major supplier of cobalt, but most of it goes to China.
The US could benefit from access to these resources and reduce China’s dominance in the sector.
However, the US approach may differ from China’s, as it relies on private companies for mining operations.
The US has not made any official announcements regarding a deal with DR Congo.
But the US is open to discussions that align with its goal of becoming a leading producer of non-fuel minerals.
How could DR Congo benefit?
DR Congo could strengthen military cooperation with the US.
This could involve training soldiers, providing access to military bases, and enhancing security co-operation.
However, the effectiveness and feasibility of these measures are uncertain.
Oversight and transparency in the deal are crucial to ensure it benefits the Congolese people.
Moves towards a peaceful future must address governance issues in the country.
What’s next?
Concrete developments are unlikely in the near future.
DR Congo is expected to provide more details on the potential deal in the coming days.
There is political will from Tshisekedi’s side, and the US is paying attention to the situation.
President Trump is reportedly set to appoint a new envoy for the Great Lakes region, indicating continued interest in the region.
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Dia adalah ayah dari Michael Boulos, yang menikah dengan putri Trump, Tiffany, dan telah menjabat sebagai penasihat senior Trump untuk urusan Arab dan Timur Tengah sejak Desember.
Di antara minat bisnisnya adalah perusahaan berbasis Nigeria yang bergerak dalam distribusi kendaraan bermotor dan peralatan di seluruh Afrika Barat – dan diharapkan akan terbang ke Kinshasa dalam beberapa minggu mendatang.
Lebih lanjut tentang konflik di DR Kongo:
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