In a dramatic turn of events, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda have signed a landmark peace deal in Washington, aimed at ending years of brutal conflict in eastern DRC. This agreement, brokered with the backing of the United States, could mark a pivotal moment in a region long plagued by violence, but questions loom over its implementation and effectiveness.

The deal mandates the withdrawal of Rwandan troops from eastern Congo within 90 days, a move that follows a significant escalation this year when Rwanda deployed thousands to support the M23 rebels, who seized control of key cities and mining areas. The conflict has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced hundreds of thousands, creating a humanitarian crisis that demands urgent attention.

Despite this hopeful development, skepticism abounds. Previous peace agreements have faltered, and with over 100 armed groups still operating in eastern DRC, the path to lasting peace appears daunting. Critics argue that without addressing the root causes of violence and ensuring accountability for past atrocities, this new deal may falter like its predecessors.

U.S. interests in the DRC’s vast mineral wealth, including gold, copper, and cobalt, cannot be overlooked. The promise of lucrative investments from American companies is intertwined with the peace process, raising concerns about whether the deal prioritizes resource extraction over genuine stability and justice for affected communities.

As the world watches, the stakes could not be higher. Will this agreement succeed where others have failed, or will it become another chapter in the ongoing saga of conflict in the region? The next few months will be crucial as the DRC and Rwanda navigate the complexities of implementation, with the eyes of the international community focused on their every move.