Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) signed a historic peace treaty on Thursday. Billed as a major diplomatic breakthrough brokered by US President Donald Trump, the deal seeks to end years of devastating conflict.
However, the reception on the ground has been mixed. While some Congolese welcomed the pact, others criticized it heavily. They cite a glaring disconnect: fighting continues unabated, even as leaders celebrate in Washington.
Skepticism in Conflict Zones
Residents in conflict-hit regions are wary. This is particularly true in Goma and Bukavu, strategic areas that Rwanda-backed rebels have dominated since early this year.
For the local population, diplomatic ceremonies often feel disconnected from reality. Alexia Kasereka, a motorcycle taxi driver in Goma, expressed the collective exhaustion of the people.
“They talk every day, but the wars never end,” Kasereka said. He noted the irony of the situation. “Today, they are signing the peace agreement, but since this morning, the fighting has continued.”
He urged leaders to ensure fairness. The people of North Kivu are tired of agreements that crumble the very next day. They want a deal that brings actual silence to the guns.
A Disconnect Between Diplomacy and Reality
Recent escalations are already threatening the truce. Violence has raged around Kamanyola and Kaziba for the past three days. Consequently, analysts are calling for proper implementation, not just signatures.
Observers note a significant gap between diplomatic claims and the situation on the ground. While Washington celebrates a victory, the security situation in the Congo is worsening.
Furthermore, complications arise from the separate Doha process. This negotiation track involves the M23 rebels directly. Currently, it has not led to a concrete peace framework. Since the M23 is not bound by the Washington agreement, pessimism remains high regarding the immediate cessation of hostilities.
Lingering Military Presence
A major hurdle remains the foreign military presence in the region. Estimates suggest that between 3,000 and 4,000 Rwandan government forces are currently deployed in eastern Congo.
Reports indicate these troops are operating alongside the M23 rebels. This entrenched military involvement poses a severe challenge to reorganizing diplomatic relations and achieving lasting peace.
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