A New Chapter for the Great Lakes? Tshisekedi and Kagame Sign Washington Peace Accord
Tshisekedi and Kagame Sign U.S.-Brokered Peace Agreement in Washington to Ease DRC–Rwanda Tensions,
Under the mediation of U.S. President Donald Trump, Democratic Republic of the Congo President Félix Tshisekedi and Rwandan President Paul Kagame signed a peace agreement in Washington on Thursday, December 4, 2025.
The accord is presented as an important step toward normalizing relations between the two neighboring countries after years of regional tension.
Although orchestrated by the White House, the agreement primarily seeks to establish a new framework for cooperation in the Great Lakes region. It outlines commitments on security collaboration, economic integration, and political dialogue.
Both leaders arrived separately in the U.S. capital before attending a two-part event: first a closed-door meeting in the Oval Office, followed by a public signing ceremony at the United States Institute for Peace—renamed the day before as the “Donald Trump Institute for Peace.”
Despite the lack of symbolic gestures between Tshisekedi and Kagame—no handshake or exchange of glances—the U.S. administration emphasized what it called a diplomatic breakthrough.
Kagame noted that implementation of the “Washington Agreements” could face “ups and downs,” but urged stronger regional partnerships to stabilize the wider Great Lakes region.
Tshisekedi, for his part, emphasized the need for “a new path” based on mutual respect, non-interference, and more coordinated efforts against armed groups—issues that remain central for Kinshasa.
Beyond security, the accord includes a substantial economic component. Trump highlighted what he described as a “powerful and detailed” text designed to create “financial opportunities” for all participating states.
Washington hopes the agreement will foster a more stable environment for investment in strategic sectors such as infrastructure, energy, and critical supply chains.
Representatives from Togo, Uganda, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates attended the ceremony, underscoring broader international interest in the proposed cooperation framework.
While the personal relationship between Tshisekedi and Kagame remains tense, the United States is betting on a sustained diplomatic process. The true test, however, will take place on the ground.
Fighting continues in parts of eastern Congo, and observers remain cautious about whether economic incentives and political commitments will translate into lasting peace.
