Congo Offers U.S. Minerals in Security Deal

Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi has proposed a minerals-for-security arrangement to U.S. President Donald Trump, offering access to critical minerals like cobalt, lithium, copper, and tantalum in exchange for military assistance against the Rwanda-backed insurgent group M23. Tshisekedi's letter to Trump, reviewed by the Wall Street Journal, emphasizes the strategic advantage the U.S. could gain by securing these resources. This proposal comes amidst ongoing conflicts in the eastern DRC, where M23 rebels have advanced and captured key cities. The U.S. response remains unclear, but Rep. Ronny Jackson has been sent as a special envoy to discuss potential deals. Tshisekedi's offer highlights the DRC's intent to collaborate with the U.S. to enhance its defense capabilities while benefiting U.S. industries reliant on these minerals. Meanwhile, the DRC faces challenges from multiple armed groups, with allegations of both Rwanda and Uganda attempting to exploit its resources.