Keypoints:
- Trump says he brokered DRC–Rwanda agreement
- Cites past global peace efforts amid Nobel frustration
- Ceasefire set to be signed in Washington on June 27
US President Donald Trump has declared victory in brokering a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda, claiming credit for the Washington-brokered deal while reigniting criticism of the Nobel Peace Prize committee for overlooking his efforts.
In a Truth Social post, Trump described the agreement as ‘a Great Day for Africa and, quite frankly, a Great Day for the World!’ He confirmed that representatives from DRC and Rwanda will travel to Washington to formally sign the peace deal on June 27.
Historic breakthrough after decades of conflict
The two neighbouring countries said in a joint statement that they had initialled the agreement this week, following three days of closed-door talks in the US capital. The accord builds on a declaration of principles signed in April and aims to end long-running violence in eastern DRC, which has been home to insurgencies and instability for over three decades.
The renewed offensive by the M23 rebel group in late 2021 brought international attention back to the region, prompting mediation efforts.
Trump criticises Nobel snub
While celebrating the diplomatic development, Trump also took the opportunity to criticise the Nobel Peace Prize committee, accusing it of ignoring his global peacemaking efforts. He cited his past involvement in reducing tensions between India and Pakistan, facilitating agreements between Serbia and Kosovo, and brokering the Abraham Accords between Israel and Arab states.
Trump further claimed he had helped prevent escalation between Egypt and Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam — a claim that has not been universally acknowledged.
Mixed global responses to peace claims
Pakistan has acknowledged Trump’s role in brokering quiet diplomacy with India and has nominated him for the 2026 Nobel Peace Prize. However, Indian officials dispute the claim, saying the US had no active role in their ceasefire agreement.
The former president has long expressed irritation at being overlooked for the prize, particularly after Barack Obama received it in 2009, early into his first term. Trump raised the issue again earlier this year during a high-profile meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
Peace deal details still under wraps
The DRC–Rwanda agreement, which is expected to be signed in Washington next week, has yet to be made public. However, sources close to the negotiations say it includes security cooperation, a ceasefire framework, and plans for disarmament of militias in the troubled border region.
While Trump has also promised to end ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, both wars continue more than five months into his presidency.
Nevertheless, analysts say the DRC–Rwanda breakthrough marks a notable success for his foreign policy record.
