Evaluating the RDC-Rwanda peace agreement one year after Donald Trump’s mediation

Twelve months have passed since a significant diplomatic push by Donald Trump aimed to settle the long-standing friction between the RDC and Rwanda. As the region reflects on this anniversary, the effectiveness of the peace agreement remains under intense scrutiny. The deal, which sought to bring Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame to a sustainable understanding, continues to face the harsh realities of the conflict in eastern Congo.

The persistence of the AFC/M23 crisis

Despite the high-level engagement from Washington, the security situation on the ground tells a complex story. The presence of the AFC/M23 remains a dominant factor in the North Kivu province. Observations from Goma show that the armed group still maintains a visible and influential presence, casting doubt on the full implementation of the de-escalation measures outlined in the original agreement.

Diplomatic balance between Kinshasa and Kigali

The core of the initiative led by Donald Trump was to bridge the gap between Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame. While the accord opened channels of communication that were previously blocked, the results after one year are mixed. Independent observers note that while large-scale conventional warfare has been avoided, the underlying tensions regarding border security and support for various armed factions continue to simmer.

Current challenges for regional stability

• Monitoring the withdrawal of foreign-backed forces in eastern RDC.
• Ensuring the safety of civilian populations in areas previously occupied by the M23.
• Maintaining the diplomatic momentum initiated by the United States.

As the Great Lakes region navigates this fragile peace, the legacy of the Donald Trump intervention is still being written. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the framework established a year ago can evolve into a lasting resolution or if it will remain a temporary pause in a decades-old struggle.