DRC and Rwanda Agree on De-escalation Measures in Washington Talks

Washington, D.C. March 19, 2026 - The Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda have agreed on concrete measures to de-escalate tensions in eastern DRC, following talks held on March 17-18 in the United States capital. The announcement was made in a joint statement with the United States. The agreement outlines coordinated actions, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, the planned withdrawal of Rwandan forces, and the lifting of certain defensive measures in eastern DRC. It also includes renewed commitments by Kinshasa to neutralize FDLR rebels within a defined timeframe. Both parties reaffirmed the protection of civilians as a priority and expressed commitment to achieving lasting peace in the Great Lakes region under the Washington Agreements framework. The development comes amid ongoing tensions in eastern Congo, where fighting persists. Kinshasa recently welcomed US sanctions against the Rwandan Defence Forces (RDF) and several officials accused of supporting the M23 rebellion, calling the move a “clear signal” in defense of DRC sovereignty. The Congolese government also emphasized the need for consistency between diplomatic commitments and realities on the ground, while expressing gratitude to Washington for its role in advancing peace efforts.