Democratic Republic of Congo President Felix Tshisekedi praised the swift progress of US-Congo relations under the Trump administration, emphasizing Washington’s renewed engagement in Africa.
Speaking to Fox News, Tshisekedi highlighted America’s influence and stressed that “things are moving a lot faster” under Trump’s leadership.
His comments followed a meeting with US special envoy Congressman Ronny Jackson, where they discussed security concerns in eastern Congo.
Congo is seeking a strategic mineral agreement with the US, similar to the Ukraine model, in exchange for American support against rebel groups destabilizing its eastern territories.
The M23 rebel group has intensified its offensive since January, capturing key cities, including Goma and Bukavu.
“We want to extract and process these minerals to create jobs while securing lasting peace and stability,” Tshisekedi stated.
He expressed optimism about reinvigorating US-Congo ties, recalling America’s stronger involvement in Africa during the 1970s and 1980s.
Addressing global competition, he noted, “It’s not that China is waxing in Africa. It’s more that America is waning.”
He called for increased US influence to counterbalance China’s expanding footprint.
Tshisekedi asserted that stronger US-Congo cooperation could bolster defense capabilities and enhance security for American investments.
He also urged Washington to exert pressure on armed groups through sanctions or diplomatic means.
The conflict in eastern Congo remains dire, with the M23 rebels recently seizing Walikale in the mineral-rich North Kivu province.
The offensive has displaced thousands, with the UN warning of a growing humanitarian crisis.
Tensions persist as Congo accuses neighboring Rwanda of supporting the rebels, escalating regional instability.