President Felix Tshisekedi of the DRC has offered critical minerals to the U.S. in exchange for military aid against the M23 rebel group. This proposal emphasizes a potential strategic alliance, highlighted by a request for a formal security pact. This comes amidst calls for a ceasefire from U.S. officials following the M23’s takeover of Goma.
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi has proposed a significant offer to United States President Donald Trump, suggesting that his country provides critical minerals in exchange for military assistance in addressing the Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group. This offer was discussed in a letter dated February 8, as reported by the Wall Street Journal.
In his correspondence, Tshisekedi emphasized the strategic advantage such a partnership would create for the United States, stating, “Our partnership would provide the US with a strategic advantage by securing critical minerals such as cobalt, lithium, copper and tantalum from the Democratic Republic of Congo.” He requested a “formal security pact” as part of this collaboration.
This proposal comes in the context of rising tensions, particularly after the M23 group seized control of Goma, a critical city in Eastern DR Congo. Following this development, United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged for an immediate ceasefire between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The Democratic Republic of Congo has initiated a potential partnership with the United States by offering access to vital minerals in return for military support against the M23 rebel group. President Tshisekedi’s proposal underscores the strategic importance of these minerals and the necessity for security assistance. The ongoing conflict and international responses signal the complexity of the regional dynamics involved.
Original Source: breakingthenews.net