The United States has proposed an infrastructure incentive connecting the Lobito railway to eastern DRC as part of peace negotiations with Rwanda. However, Rwanda has distanced itself from these discussions, further complicating the situation in the region. With ongoing conflicts driven by local armed groups and the humanitarian impact of these tensions, maintaining a focus on peace remains crucial. Similar challenges are evident in U.S. relations with Ethiopia and Niger, highlighting a complex diplomatic landscape.
The United States has proposed extending its signature African investment initiative, the Lobito railway, to foster peace between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda. However, Rwanda has seemingly retreated from negotiations. According to Molly Phee, the outgoing Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, the objective was to stabilize eastern DRC and extend the railway into that region, which would facilitate transport for minerals from DRC and Zambia to Angola.
Rwanda’s ongoing support for the March 23 (M23) Movement, which has occupied significant areas in eastern DRC, has exacerbated tensions and caused a humanitarian crisis. Although Rwandan President Paul Kagame has not confessed to direct military involvement, he has demanded the dismantling of the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a militia rooted in earlier conflicts. In the midst of these conflicts, authorities in Kinshasa have accused Rwanda of exploiting local mines.
Phee commented on the U.S. strategy, indicating a stance where effective solutions would include pressure on the DRC to act against the FDLR. Despite initial encouraging discussions, Kagame’s withdrawal from the Luanda summit signaled a setback, as Rwanda and M23 have since expanded their control.
Amidst these developments, Phee pointed out that Biden’s administration has had other pressing international issues to address, such as the war in Ukraine and Gaza, even as she expressed pride in the U.S. role in mediating a ceasefire in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. Nonetheless, she raised concerns about excessive force employed by Ethiopian security forces in subsequent conflicts.
The U.S. also faced challenges in Niger, where a military coup occurred shortly after Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit. The junta’s alignment with Russia manifested in the cancellation of a military cooperation agreement, impacting U.S. operations in the region. Phee attempted to clarify her stance regarding Niger’s potential uranium sale to Iran, encouraging responsible uses of resources to benefit the Nigerien people.
Despite the setbacks, Phee remains optimistic in fostering better relations with Ethiopia and Niger under the right conditions, emphasizing the necessity of diplomatic engagement and responsible governance.
The article discusses the U.S. diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving tensions between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda, particularly focusing on the proposed Lobito railway project as a peace incentive. It highlights Rwanda’s backing of armed groups in eastern DRC, the humanitarian crises resulting from these conflicts, and the implications of U.S. foreign policy in the region. Additionally, the article reflects on broader regional instability involving Ethiopia and Niger, showcasing the complexities of U.S. engagement in African affairs amid competing global crises.
The U.S. remains committed to facilitating dialogue and peace in Central Africa, particularly amidst rising tensions in the DRC and Rwanda. However, the withdrawal of Rwanda from proposed negotiations hampers progress. Addressing broader conflicts in Ethiopia and the recent upheaval in Niger demonstrates the intricacies and challenges faced by U.S. diplomacy in the region. Continued engagement and a focus on establishing stable partnerships are paramount for future developments.
Original Source: www.france24.com
