The President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Felix Tshisekedi, and Rwandan President Paul Kagame have signed a peace deal.

On December 4th, 2025, the duo met with United States (US) President Donald Trump at White House.

The peace agreement is presented as part of a package that blends security commitments with an economic and strategic minerals partnership.

Tshisekedi and Kagame have frequently exchanged insults in recent years, each accusing the other of starting the conflict.

What Trump Said During Peace Agreement Talks

At the beginning of the event at the newly-renamed Donald J Trump Institute of Peace, Trump said the peace ceremony was a “great day” for Africa and the world.

“I have a lot of confidence in both leaders,” Trump said.

“We’ll keep these commitments. I know they’re going to keep them and follow through on the agreement and create a much brighter future for the people of their countries,” he added.

In June 2025, Trump got the two countries’ foreign ministers to sign a peace accord in June, hailing it as a “glorious triumph.”

Also Read: Trump Invites Ruto to Witness Historic Agreement

What the Two Presidents Said During the Event

Kagame acknowledged Trump as an “even-handed” leader who is “never taking sides.”

He described Trump’s approach as pragmatic and said that “as a result, we have the clearest and most viable path forward that we have ever had.”

Meanwhile, Tshisekedi expressed “deep gratitude and clear hope”, while at the same time saying he hoped Rwanda would “respect the letter and spirit of the deal”.

Among other African Presidents who attended the event were those from Kenya, Angola, Burundi, and Togo, as well as the vice-president of Uganda.

What Ruto Said at the Event 

President William Ruto appreciated the efforts of Trump for his commitment and decisive leadership in bringing a historic agreement to fruition.

Ruto also honored the contributions of the East African Community, the Southern African Development Community, and all mediators whose tireless efforts shepherded the peace process to this defining moment.

“We now call upon all parties to faithfully uphold and implement the terms of the Accord so that the people of Eastern DRC may return to their homes, rebuild their lives, and reclaim the peace, dignity, and hope that have long been denied to them,” Ruto said.

What the AUC Chairman Stated

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, appreciated the peace agreement deal.

Speaking during the event, Mahmoud described this development as a milestone in the pursuit of lasting peace, security, and stability in the Great Lakes region.

“The Chairperson acknowledged and appreciated the constructive support provided by the United States, including the personal engagement of President Donald Trump, whose commitment helped create conditions conducive to this outcome. He also commends the State of Qatar for its diplomatic backing and support, for its readiness to support African-led peace initiatives,” the Commission wrote on its X official account.

Also Read: Trump Announces Permanent Halt to Migration From All Third-World Countries

What the DRC Minister Said in the Washington Press Conference

On December 3rd, at a Washington press conference, DW correspondent Janelle Dumalaon asked Congolese officials how they interpret the intensifying clashes.

However, DRC Minister of Communication Patrick Muyaya said it looks like Rwanda doesn’t want peace.

“Since the signing of this agreement, we are doing our best to make sure we do our part… Peace for us means withdrawal of Rwandan troops, meaning any kind of support to M23,” Muyaya said.

He added, “Start talking quietly about peace, about development, about integration.”

The M23 rebel movement has captured major cities, including Goma and Bukavu, in recent months, triggering mass displacement and civilian deaths.

United Nations (UN) and independent researchers said that the M23 movement is backed by Rwanda, an accusation that Kigali denied.

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Donald Trump and other top officials at past White House event. PHOTO/W