The U.S. is in exploratory talks with the DRC for a deal involving rare earth elements, which would provide military assistance in exchange for access to valuable minerals. The negotiations face challenges but are gaining traction amid unrest in eastern DRC, where rebel groups are active.
The United States is reportedly in talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) regarding a potential agreement focused on rare earth elements. This initiative reflects the Trump administration’s ongoing strategy to secure critical resources abroad, especially after previous negotiations with Ukraine did not succeed.
Recent reports from the Financial Times (FT) indicate that discussions between Washington and Kinshasa have gained momentum. However, the negotiations are still considered to be in the early stages, facing several challenges that may hinder progress.
In eastern DRC, reports from the United Nations reveal that rebels, allegedly backed by Rwandan forces, have seized control of significant territories, which are rich in minerals. Tina Salama, a spokesperson for President Felix Tshisekedi, has urged the U.S. to directly purchase raw materials, highlighting Congolese ownership over these resources.
Rebel groups are actively consolidating power in the eastern regions, which house vast mineral wealth, including cobalt, lithium, tantalum, and uranium. DRC Senator Pierre Kanda Kalambayi emphasized in a letter to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio the potential for a strong partnership between the U.S. and DRC, owing to the latter’s estimated $24 trillion in untapped mineral reserves.
Kalambayi noted that in exchange for resource access, the DRC expects increased military cooperation from the U.S., including training and supplying weapons to its forces. This call for partnership comes after a previous deal with Ukraine regarding natural resources fell apart, amidst a tense Oval Office meeting between U.S. officials and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
The U.S. is exploring a potential rare earth minerals deal with the DRC in exchange for military aid. While discussions with DRC officials are ongoing and have intensified, numerous challenges remain. The partnership aims to enhance military cooperation and secure access to vital resources, showcasing the significance of rare minerals in global strategic interests.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
