DRC and M23 rebels have confirmed they will return to Doha for fresh peace negotiations.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and the M23 rebel group have both agreed to send delegations back to Doha for a new round of peace discussions. This follows fresh diplomatic momentum led by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who is pushing to secure a lasting deal in the conflict-hit region.
The decision comes just days after Congo and Rwanda’s foreign ministers signed a peace framework in Washington. The deal includes a 90-day deadline for Rwanda to pull out troops from eastern Congo. Trump, who witnessed the signing, is expected to host Presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Paul Kagame in Washington later this month for a formal ceremony.
Trump’s senior adviser for African affairs, Massad Boulos, expressed hope that a final agreement could be sealed before the end of July. He admitted the situation on the ground remains complex but said the Trump team believes real progress is possible.
“We’re optimistic. Both sides want peace. We believe this can unlock billions in investment for the region,” Boulos told reporters on Wednesday.
At a press briefing on Thursday, M23’s spokesperson Benjamin Mbonimpa confirmed their participation in the resumed talks. However, he pointed fingers at the Congolese government, accusing it of dragging its feet after the Washington agreement.
He revealed that Qatari mediators had reached out several times urging M23 to return to talks. M23’s return comes with specific conditionsamong them, the release of imprisoned fighters and restoration of financial services in areas under their control.
Kinshasa Confirms Attendance
The DRC presidency also confirmed to Reuters that its team will join the Doha dialogue, marking a significant step toward a negotiated settlement.
This follows months of heavy fighting in the east, where M23reportedly backed by Rwanda, has expanded its territory at an alarming pace, displacing thousands of civilians.
A confidential United Nations report reviewed by Reuters claims Rwanda continues to command M23 troops behind the scenes. Kigali has dismissed these claims, stating its concern lies with the presence of armed Hutu groups, linked to the 1994 Rwandan genocide,e operating from inside Congolese territory.
Despite the bitter accusations and a long history of mistrust, the U.S.-led mediation believes the region stands a chance for a breakthrough. The upcoming talks in Doha could determine whether peace and development can finally take root in eastern Congo.
The outcome will not only shape the future of the mineral-rich region but may also reshape U.S. diplomacy in Africa under Trump’s renewed engagement.
