On December 4, 2025, Presidents Felix Tshisekedi of DR Congo and Paul Kagame of Rwanda signed the US-brokered Washington Accords, aiming to end decades of conflict involving the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group. Despite the agreement, fighting continues in eastern Congo, causing civilian casualties and displacement. The deal includes a ceasefire, disarmament, refugee returns, and a regional economic integration framework to attract Western investment in critical minerals.