Overview
- The Washington Accords formalize commitments on a ceasefire, disarmament of non-state forces, refugee returns, accountability measures, regional economic integration, and critical-minerals cooperation.
- Fresh fighting was reported across South Kivu as the documents were signed, and the M23 rebel group—cited as gaining ground this year—was not a party to the agreement.
- Rwanda denies UN experts’ findings that it directs or backs M23, while Kigali links any pullback to Congo neutralizing the FDLR; Kinshasa accuses Rwanda of fueling the conflict.
- U.S. officials tout pathways for Western investment in cobalt, copper, tantalum, tin, tungsten, gold, and other resources as Washington seeks alternatives to China’s dominance in critical minerals.
- The ceremony took place at the U.S. Institute of Peace, which was renamed the Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace a day earlier, as rights groups warned that civilians have yet to see relief.