The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has agreed to drop its demand for the immediate withdrawal of Rwandan troops from its eastern territory, clearing the path for a landmark peace agreement facilitated by the United States. The deal is expected to be signed in Washington on Friday, June 27, 2025, after months of diplomatic efforts to defuse tensions in the mineral-rich Great Lakes region.

Sources familiar with the negotiations revealed that the new agreement outlines a phased withdrawal of Rwandan forces. The timeline for the withdrawal will be tied to Congo’s progress in combating the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia group comprised of remnants involved in the 1994 Rwandan genocide. This revised approach addresses Rwanda’s national security concerns while recognizing Congo’s calls for territorial sovereignty.

The comprehensive agreement includes several key provisions. These include the cessation of hostilities, mutual respect for sovereignty and borders, demobilization and reintegration of rebel groups, and robust monitoring mechanisms to verify the withdrawal of troops and implementation of military operations. A third-party body is expected to oversee compliance with the terms.

Previously, the United States had pushed for a complete Rwandan troop withdrawal before the peace deal’s signing. However, Rwandan officials resisted this approach, citing active threats from armed rebel factions operating within eastern Congo. The new phased strategy appears to have eased those concerns and brought both sides closer to a resolution.

Beyond the immediate military and political implications, the agreement is part of a broader U.S.-backed effort to stabilize the region and boost Western investment in Congo’s valuable mineral sector. Discussions are underway regarding legal frameworks to allow Congo’s minerals—such as tantalum, lithium, cobalt, and gold—to be processed in Rwanda under international scrutiny, creating a transparent and secure supply chain. Such initiatives aim to limit illegal mining and reduce dependence on conflict minerals.

The conflict between Rwanda and the DRC, particularly over the activities of the M23 rebel group, has displaced hundreds of thousands and strained regional relations. Congo accuses Rwanda of backing M23, a charge Kigali denies. In February, M23 fighters reportedly executed over 20 civilians near Goma, according to Human Rights Watch. The UN's investigation into these and other possible war crimes has been delayed due to funding shortages.

Tensions escalated further in June when Rwanda withdrew from the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), protesting the bloc’s alignment with Congo’s position. Congo had previously severed diplomatic ties with Rwanda after M23’s seizure of key territory earlier in the year.

With the expected signing of the peace deal, attention will turn to its implementation. The international community is watching closely to see whether this agreement can bring lasting stability to a region long plagued by violence, displacement, and resource-driven conflict.