Trump wants recognition for peace treaty between two African nations

Trump wants recognition for peace treaty between two African nations

A peace deal brokered by the White House aims to end bloody clashes in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where a militia reportedly backed by Rwanda holds large areas. The contract will be signed on Friday in Washington D.C. signed by representatives of the two African nations.

Doubts about the effectiveness of the agreement

Many are skeptical about whether the agreement - described by US President Donald Trump as a "miracle treaty" - can end the complex and long-running conflict. The militia has not yet committed to laying down its weapons.

Trump is optimistic

Trump expressed confidence about the prospects for peace as representatives from Rwanda and the DRC signed a draft of the agreement on June 18. At the same time, he indicated that he would not be given credit for his role in ending this or other conflicts.

Trump's statements on social media

On June 20th he wrote downTruth Social: "This is a great day for Africa and, quite frankly, a great day for the world! I will not receive a Nobel Peace Prize for this." He added: "No matter what I do - even regarding Russia/Ukraine or Israel/Iran - I won't get a Nobel Peace Prize, but people know, and that's all that matters to me!"

American economic interests

Trump presents himself as a “peacemaker” and has expanded his interest in global conflicts to include the brutal war in the mineral-rich eastern DRC. His peace agreement could also pave the way for American economic interests in the region as the US eyes access to the DRC's vital minerals.

The situation on site

More than 7,000 people were killed, and more than a million others have fled, since the M23 militia launched a new offensive against the Congolese army in early January and took control of the two largest cities in the east of the country.

Humanitarian crisis

There are increasing reports of Executions – even of children – in occupied areas, where aid groups are also supported by one epidemic report sexual violence.

Causes of the conflict

The crisis in eastern DRC, which shares a border with Rwanda and large deposits of minerals which are crucial for electronics production, are the result of a complex interaction. Daniel Kubelwa, a Congolese activist, points out that the conflict between the DRC and Rwanda is “deeply rooted in colonial border disputes, unresolved regional tensions and the aftermath of the 1994 Rwandan genocide.”

International reactions

The Rwandan government has not acknowledged allegations that it supports M23, but stressed that it must defend itself against Hutu militias operating in the DRC. M23 occupies strategically important mining towns in the DRC's eastern North and South Kivu provinces.

Contents of the peace plan

The Washington Peace Agreement contains provisions on “respect for territorial integrity and a prohibition of hostilities,” including the “separation, disarmament and conditional integration of non-state armed groups.”

Risks for the peace process

The Alliance Fleuve Congo (AFC) rebel coalition, of which M23 is a member, told CNN that it did not participate in the US-brokered peace process, but was participating in a separate negotiation process with the mediation of Qatar feel obliged.

conclusion

Although peace efforts by the US and Qatar are considered laudable, there are beliefs that any agreement that does not address the roots of the conflict will serve only as a temporary ceasefire. True and lasting peace requires honest insight, the redistribution of resources and a broad national dialogue that includes all Congolese voices.