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DR Congo's Mineral Deal With U.S. Challenged

Congolese lawyers and human rights defenders are challenging a "minerals-for-security" deal signed between the government of President Félix Tshisekedi and the United States in December. Critics argue the agreement bypassed necessary parliamentary approval and may even require a national referendum under the Congolese constitution.

The deal grants the U.S. preferential access to critical minerals, including cobalt and coltan - essential components for batteries, electronics, and defense manufacturing. While Washington maintains the arrangement will stabilize eastern Congo and reduce U.S. reliance on foreign suppliers, legal experts contend the deal violates constitutional protocols.

"The agreement has not been presented to parliament, despite calling for significant changes to Congo's fiscal policies, mining laws, and potentially the constitution itself," one analyst noted.

InFocus

@US_SrAdvisorAF

U.S. Senior Advisor for Arab and African Affairs Massad Boulos meeting with DR Congo President Tshisekedi on October 11, 2025 "to reaffirm our commitment to the long-term stability of the DRC and strengthen the enduring partnership between our nations."

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