The United States is pushing for rapid movement in peace talks between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), setting sights on an agreement by July.
Troy Fitrell, U.S. Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region, stressed an “extremely aggressive timeline” during an online briefing this week.
Technical teams are now on the ground, tasked with translating diplomatic principles into practical steps to end the long-simmering conflict.
“We’ve done the principles — now we argue about putting them into action,” Fitrell said, urging urgency in negotiations.
“There is no sense fooling around on this. If we are going to do it, we do it now,” he added firmly.
Tensions remain high following the cancellation of a planned May meeting between the foreign ministers of Rwanda and the DRC.
Meanwhile, in Doha, a separate mediation track between Kinshasa and the M23 rebel group is also gaining momentum.
Sources say both delegations have been recalled for further dialogue after recent consultations led by Qatari officials.
The M23 rebels have captured territory in eastern Congo, drawing regional concern and deepening accusations of foreign interference.
Kinshasa accuses Kigali of backing the rebel movement — a claim Rwanda continues to deny, fuelling mutual distrust.
Despite the diplomatic flurry, securing a lasting peace remains an uphill battle fraught with political risks and historical grievances.
U.S. officials are intensifying efforts to mediate, but warn that true progress hinges on the political will of both nations.
The coming weeks may determine whether fragile hopes of peace solidify into a deal — or shatter under renewed tension.