U.S. Welcomes Rwanda-DRC Peace Proposals as Critical Step Toward Agreement
Draft Documents Submitted Following April Principles Agreement
The United States has welcomed draft peace proposals from Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), calling them a crucial development in resolving tensions between the neighboring nations. Massad Boulos, senior advisor to the U.S. president on African affairs, confirmed receipt of preliminary documents outlining both countries’ expectations for a peace deal.
Key Milestone in Peace Process
“This is a key milestone toward implementing the principles agreement,” Boulos stated, referring to the foundational agreement signed in New York on April 25. The advisor expressed encouragement at both nations’ continued commitment to peace in the Great Lakes region.
Diplomatic Meetings Clarify Negotiation Status
Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe and DRC counterpart Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner recently met with Boulos during Gabon’s presidential inauguration. Nduhungirehe clarified that while draft proposals have been exchanged, formal negotiations have not yet commenced, with both sides still working to align their positions.
Addressing Eastern Congo Security Concerns
The peace process aims to address chronic insecurity in eastern DRC, home to over 120 armed groups including the FDLR – a militia with ties to Rwanda’s 1994 genocide. Rwanda has documented more than 20 cross-border attacks by the FDLR since 2018, including a January artillery strike that killed 16 civilians in Rubavu District.
U.S. Commits to Supporting Process
On May 5, Boulos reaffirmed Washington’s support for the peace process, calling the draft submissions “a significant step toward honoring the April commitments.” The U.S. facilitated the initial agreement through Secretary of State Marco Rubio, setting a May 2 deadline for proposal submissions.
Presidential Optimism and Next Steps
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the developments, stating: “We have good news out of Rwanda and the DRC.” The final peace agreement is expected to be signed by Presidents Paul Kagame and Félix Tshisekedi in Washington, D.C. this June, alongside a regional development cooperation accord.
Credit: Original report by RNA News