Strategic Minerals and Security Cooperation The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has proposed an exclusive partnership with the United States, offering access to its vast mineral wealth and infrastructure projects in exchange for security assistance amid ongoing conflicts with rebel groups backed by neighboring Rwanda.
A Critical Proposal for US Collaboration In a formal letter to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the DRC government requested an urgent meeting between President Felix Tshisekedi and President Donald Trump. The discussions would center on a potential agreement granting American companies privileged access to Congo’s reserves of cobalt, lithium, tantalum, and uranium—minerals crucial for global energy transition and US national security.
“As the world’s largest supplier of cobalt and a major producer of other critical minerals, the DRC’s resources are indispensable for US industrial competitiveness and energy security,” stated an Africa-US business coalition advocating on Congo’s behalf.
The letter presents a unique opportunity for the US to secure an exclusive and stable supply chain of critical minerals while reinforcing strategic partnerships in Africa.
Urgency Amid Regional Instability Tshisekedi’s outreach underscores the growing need for international support as the DRC struggles against rebel forces occupying mineral-rich territories in its eastern region. The instability poses a threat not only to the country’s economy but also to global supply chains dependent on Congolese resources.
The US State Department acknowledged that it is “open to exploring partnerships in this sector,” stating that increased cooperation with American firms would bolster both economies and provide long-term stability in the region.
Challenges and Uncertainties Despite the potential benefits, a formal agreement remains uncertain. Previous US administrations, including that of Joe Biden, faced significant hurdles in encouraging American investment in Congo’s mining sector due to concerns over corruption, environmental issues, and labor rights violations.
Additionally, the US has historically hesitated to provide military aid to the DRC’s forces due to accusations of human rights abuses within its military ranks.
“For the DRC, this would require complex renegotiations of mining contracts, and it’s unclear if the Trump administration can successfully mobilize US investors,” said Joshua Walker, Program Director for the Congo Research Group at New York University’s Center on International Cooperation. “It also remains to be seen whether the new administration will take strong measures against Rwanda’s role in the conflict.”
Expanding Diplomatic Outreach The letter is part of a broader diplomatic effort, with similar proposals sent to key US officials. The initiative mirrors the Trump administration’s earlier minerals-for-security deals with Ukraine, which recently collapsed.
With its mining industry currently dominated by Chinese companies, the DRC sees a US partnership as an opportunity to reduce Chinese influence while strengthening economic ties with the West, according to the business lobbying group representing Congo’s interests.
A Comprehensive Agreement on the Table The proposal outlines key provisions, including granting US companies operational control and exclusive rights to extract and export critical minerals. Additionally, it includes plans for developing a deep-water port on the Atlantic coast and establishing a joint strategic mineral stockpile.
In return, the US would provide military training, equipment, and direct security assistance to Congo’s armed forces. The agreement would also grant the US access to military bases within the DRC to safeguard vital mining sites and ensure resource security.
Key Political and Business Players Involved The letter, made public through the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) website, was submitted by lobbyist Aaron Poynton of the Africa-USA Business Council on behalf of Pierre Kanda Kalambayi, chairman of the Congolese Senate’s Committee on Defense, Security, and Border Protection.
Additional letters were addressed to senior US policymakers, including Republican Senator Ted Cruz, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and Representative Rob Wittman, who chairs the House Critical Minerals Policy Working Group.
Looking Ahead As negotiations unfold, the success of the DRC’s proposal will depend on US willingness to engage in long-term investments while navigating the complex geopolitical landscape of Central Africa. If realized, this partnership could reshape the global critical minerals market, positioning the US as a dominant force in the industry while bolstering stability in the DRC.
