Congo President Felix Tshisekedi has proposed a minerals deal with the United States to counterbalance Rwanda’s influence in his country, as an armed group backed by Rwanda seizes vast territory.
The Democratic Republic of Congo is rich in natural resources, including coltan and cobalt used in electronics. However, China currently controls most of these resources. Tshisekedi seeks Western pressure against Rwanda, hoping it will bring security and stability to his country.
Europe has given Rwanda $935 million for access to minerals like tin, tungsten, and gold, but the EU’s deal is seen as an “absolute scandal” by Tshisekedi, who accuses Europe of enabling Rwanda’s theft of Congo’s resources. The US has imposed sanctions on a Rwandan official and called for increased regulation.
Rwanda denies funding M23, but Tshisekedi claims it is a creation of the Rwandan military to plunder minerals. The conflict in eastern Congo has killed thousands and displaced many more. The African Union has called for a cease-fire, but talks have been unsuccessful.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/22/world/africa/congo-rwanda-tshisekedi-interview.html