- Trump administration confirms Congo minerals deal talks involving cobalt and copper
- M23 rebels withdraw from strategic mining town after weeks of clashes
- Congo’s cobalt critical for EV batteries amid 2024 global tech demand surge
- Conflict displaces seven million people, including 100,000 in 2024 alone
- Parallel US-Ukraine minerals negotiations counter Russian influence
The United States is advancing high-stakes negotiations with the Democratic Republic of Congo to develop strategic mineral resources, according to Trump administration officials. Senior adviser Massad Boulos revealed ongoing discussions about multibillion-dollar investmentsfollowing meetings with President Felix Tshisekedi. The proposed partnership aims to combine resource development with security improvements in regions plagued by armed groups.
Congo supplies 70% of the world’s cobalt—essential for electric vehicle batteries and smartphones—while holding vast untapped deposits of industrial diamonds and copper. Industry analysts note that transparent mining operations could reduce reliance on conflict minerals currently funding rebel groups. The deal comes as automakers scramble to secure ethical cobalt sources, with global EV production expected to triple by 2026.
Security concerns remain paramount following M23 rebels’ withdrawal from Walikale, a tin-mining hub controlling North Kivu’s Bisie mine. While the group claims strategic repositioning, local officials credit pressure from government-aligned militias for their retreat. The mineral wealth in this region should benefit Congolese citizens, not finance violence,stated national deputy Willy Mishiki during recent parliamentary debates.
Eastern Congo’s humanitarian crisis continues worsening, with displaced populations exceeding seven million people. Recent fighting near Rwanda’s border has disrupted tin exports critical to electronics manufacturing. The proposed US partnership includes security provisions mirroring Ukraine negotiations, where mineral deals aim to counter Russian economic influence through strategic resource alliances.
Three critical insights emerge from these developments: First, cobalt prices could stabilize if US-backed projects improve mining transparency. Second, regional security partnerships may reduce rebel control over $1.2 billion in annual mineral smuggling. Third, ethical sourcing certifications could become mandatory for tech companies under potential US legislation.
The Walikale case study demonstrates how resource control fuels conflict—the Bisie mine alone produces 15% of Africa’s tin exports. Successful implementation of the US-Congo deal would require deploying security forces to protect mining infrastructure while training local workers. As President Tshisekedi noted, Strategic partnerships must make Congo safer, not just wealthier.