The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have agreed on a peace framework aimed at ending the M23 conflict in eastern Congo.
According to Reuters, the deal also outlines a roadmap to restore state authority across the volatile region.
Government spokesman Patrick Muyaya said the agreement respects the DRC’s “non-negotiable red lines,” including a full withdrawal of M23 rebels from occupied areas.
He emphasized that DRC’s institutions, including its national army, would deploy immediately after the rebels retreat.
“This is a first step. A full and lasting peace agreement will be finalized in the coming days,” Muyaya stated during a briefing.
According to the signed deal, both sides must implement key terms by July 29, and begin direct peace talks by August 8.
A crucial summit between DRC President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame is expected to follow.
The meeting will aim to consolidate the Washington-brokered peace roadmap, an earlier agreement still waiting for execution.
Despite optimism, many questions remain. Observers are particularly curious about a rumored economic deal discussed between Tshisekedi and U.S.
special envoy Massad Boulos in April. Former U.S. President Donald Trump had earlier claimed credit for securing DRC mineral deals, sparking controversy over foreign influence in Congo’s resource-rich territory.
The peace process faces significant hurdles. Previous ceasefire agreements in eastern Congo have repeatedly collapsed.
The United Nations has accused Rwanda of supporting M23 rebels, although Kigali denies the allegation.
UN experts insist the Rwandan army played a “critical role” in recent M23 offensives, including direct combat support.
The M23 offensive earlier this year displaced hundreds of thousands and left thousands dead.
Rebels seized strategic cities, including Goma and Bukavu, escalating fears of regional war.
Although the front line stabilized in February, fighting between M23 and local pro-government militias continues to flare up.
Eastern DRC, rich in minerals like cobalt and coltan, has been trapped in decades of conflict.
The region’s wealth has fueled violence, with armed groups and foreign interests vying for control.
Whether this new agreement brings peace or merely delays more bloodshed remains to be seen.
For now, all eyes are on July 29 and the hope that Congo might finally reclaim its long-lost stability.