Politics 17 April 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
US Slams Rwanda for Breaching DRC Peace Deal in Washington Accord
The United States has accused Rwanda of escalating conflict in eastern DRC, violating the Washington Accord by failing to withdraw troops and halt support for armed groups. US official Tammy Bruce also urged the DRC to neutralize the FDLR militia while warning of potential further sanctions. Source: https://observer.ug/news/us-accuses-rwanda-of-violating-drc-peace-agreement
The United States has pointed fingers at Rwanda for undermining the Washington Accord, a key peace agreement signed last year in Washington, DC, aimed at resolving the prolonged violence in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The deal mandates Rwanda to pull out its forces from eastern DRC and stop backing armed factions, while requiring Kinshasa to dismantle the FDLR militia. It also pushes for economic ties, especially in minerals, backed by US support.
During a UN Security Council briefing on the Great Lakes, Tammy Bruce stated that neither side has fully complied, though the accord sparked initial diplomatic progress.
Bruce stressed the need for full implementation to foster peace and stability, praising Qatar’s role in DRC-M23 talks, Switzerland’s hosting of discussions, and the African Union’s mediation led by Togo’s president.
She expressed deep disappointment over Rwanda’s actions, calling them a clear breach and demanding immediate troop withdrawal to uphold DRC’s sovereignty.
The US also criticized DRC for not addressing FDLR in its territories, vital to ending mistrust. Bruce hinted at tougher measures, following recent sanctions on Rwanda’s military leaders.
‘Those undermining peace will face consequences,’ she affirmed, reaffirming US commitment to lasting regional security.
Source: The Observer (Uganda)