Rwanda DRC Peace Deal Remains Largely Aspirational

Statement from Refugees International:

“Refugees International welcomes yesterday’s signing of the peace agreement between the Republic of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The record since this summer, however, gives ample reason for concern and for skepticism that the December 4 signing will, on its own, change realities on the ground. 

The ceremony elevates and ratifies an accord that has technically been in force since June 27, 2025. We recognize the significance of this moment and the potential enshrined in the deal’s seven foundational pillars to bring about lasting peace, demilitarization, and humanitarian assistance. But for peace to be realized, President Trump must sustain pressure on all parties to hold to their promises.

Key provisions of the June agreement remain unimplemented, and violence in eastern DRC has not only persisted, but flared soon after the accord was concluded. Armed groups continue to advance, civilians continue to flee, and the gap between diplomatic choreography and lived experience in North Kivu and Ituri is widening.

Humanitarian conditions are deteriorating as front lines shift and access shrinks. Millions are projected to face crisis-level food insecurity, while internally displaced people, often uprooted multiple times, struggle to survive with minimal protection or services. At the same time, aid agencies are being forced to scale back just as needs peak, constrained by shrinking budgets and mounting insecurity.

The security provisions of the accord have fared no better. Commitments to neutralize armed groups, withdraw foreign forces, and stand up credible verification mechanisms remain largely aspirational. Civil society, especially women’s organizations and displaced communities, have had little voice in the agreement process. Justice for victims of atrocity crimes remains elusive.

In this context, the most consequential development may be political. Yesterday’s ceremony makes clear that President Trump and his administration now “own” this deal. That ownership is only an asset if it translates into sustained pressure on all parties to do what they already promised.

The immediate priority must be a stop to the fighting and the implementation of the humanitarian commitments of the agreement. The true test of success is whether civilian lives improve, and whether families are safer and better protected. Only then will this deal begin to look less like another promise on paper and more like a lifeline for the people of eastern Congo.”

For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Sarah Sheffer at ssheffer@refugeesinternational.org.