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Business Standard
21-06-2025
- Politics
- Business Standard
Trump brokers Congo-Rwanda peace deal, says he deserves Nobel Prize
Trump announced Congo-Rwanda peace deal with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, calling it a 'great day for Africa' and hinting he deserves a Nobel Peace Prize Nandini Singh New Delhi In what he described as a 'Great Day for Africa,' US President Donald Trump on Friday announced a peace agreement between the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Rwanda—marking a potential end to one of Africa's deadliest and longest-running conflicts. Taking to his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump revealed that the breakthrough came with the help of Secretary of State Marco Rubio. 'I am very happy to report that I have arranged, along with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a wonderful Treaty between the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and the Republic of Rwanda, in their War, which was known for violent bloodshed and death, more so even than most other Wars,' he posted. 'This is a Great Day for Africa and, quite frankly, a Great Day for the World!' A push for peace amid years of violence The deal reportedly came at the request of DRC President Felix Tshisekedi, who asked Trump's administration to intervene after multiple failed peace efforts. According to a CBS News report, the agreement includes provisions to end hostilities, enforce territorial integrity, disarm rebel groups, support the return of displaced communities, and promote cross-border economic cooperation. The US State Department further confirmed that the peace framework was built on mutual concessions and long-term goals for stability in the region. However, concerns remain about the role of the M23 militia, which was not included in the talks. M23 controls significant parts of eastern DRC and is widely believed to receive support from Rwanda—an allegation Kigali has consistently denied. The group recently expanded its presence in two provinces, raising fears that the conflict could continue in spite of the treaty. 'The M23 are still pushing, in spite of peace negotiations, for territorial gains,' said Daniel Van Dalen, senior analyst at Africa-focused intelligence firm Signal Risk. Strategic interests and a new US-Africa equation In a significant parallel development, Massad Boulous—father-in-law of Tiffany Trump—was appointed senior adviser to the White House on Africa during the peace efforts. Boulous travelled across the continent to meet with leaders and strengthen business ties, particularly in the mining sector. The Trump administration is reportedly keen to counter China's dominance in Africa's mineral supply chain. The DRC, which is now reviewing its mining tax laws, is seeking to attract more Western investment. As part of this strategic pivot, the US has pledged $560 million to support the Lobito Corridor project—a key rail route linking DRC's mineral belt to an Angolan port, aimed at boosting exports and regional trade. CBS News cited sources suggesting that Rwanda may agree to pull out troops believed to be aiding M23, while the DRC could permit some small-scale mining operations to be routed through Rwanda. However, without direct engagement from M23, many experts warn the peace may remain fragile. 'I won't get a Nobel Peace Prize for this' While the world watches cautiously, Trump also did not miss the chance to highlight what he views as his overlooked peace-building efforts. 'I won't get a Nobel Peace Prize for this… but the people know, and that's all that matters to me!' he wrote on Truth Social, alluding to his previous attempts to broker peace in conflict zones including India-Pakistan, Serbia-Kosovo, Egypt-Ethiopia, and the Abraham Accords in the Middle East.
Time of India
11-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
US shifts Africa security strategy amid global pivot
AP image Africa should take greater ownership of its own security challenges. That was the message recently communicated by General Michael Langley, head of US Africa Command (USAFRICOM). The unit is part of the US Department of Defense and is responsible for all defence operations and security cooperation on the African continent. The announcement comes as the United States rethinks its military strategy in Africa, signalling a significant shift in its approach to security on the continent. This adjustment aligns with a broader strategic pivot under the Trump administration, which is prioritising homeland security and a leaner, more lethal military force, while reducing the US military footprint overseas, including in Africa. But what could it mean for the continent? Africa's global relevance With its growing population and vast natural resources, Africa is strategically important to Europe and the United States. "Africa is a strategic partner with a large and growing youth population — projected to double by 2045 according to the African Economic Outlook," Adib Saani, a foreign policy and security analyst, told DW. "The continent is rich, holding vast mineral resources and strategic reserves like uranium that both Western and Eastern countries heavily rely on." The continent was also home to 11 of the world's 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024. "The US and others engage with Africa not just out of goodwill but because these resources are vital for running industries worldwide," Saani said. "This makes the relationship mutually beneficial — a win-win for Africa and the rest of the world." However, the Trump administration's defence strategy has shifted focus away from protecting the US from threats emanating from abroad, including countering terrorist organisations such as the so-called "Islamic State" (IS) militant group and al-Qaeda, which have expanded their presence and capabilities in Africa. 'Sharing the burden' of US-Africa security operations Previously, US military efforts in Africa combined defence, diplomacy and development. "America has been a close partner in countering violent extremism, especially in Eastern and West Africa," Saani explained. "We have relied heavily on US logistics, training and intelligence sharing to address these threats. In terms of human security, the US has also contributed through USAID and other programs that have helped lift many out of poverty." USAFRICOM head Langley said the military's priorities now focus on homeland protection, encouraging instead "burden sharing" with African partners. He said the goal is to build local military capacity to enable independent operations and reduce reliance on US forces. This shift was evident during the latest African Lion joint military exercise. The annual event is the largest military exercise on the continent and emphasises combined air, land and sea operations with more than 40 participating nations. The latest edition, in May, lacked the US-led efforts usually apparent and instead focused on collaboration and cooperation. What could reduced US involvement mean? Yet foreign policy analyst Adib Saani warned that a diminished US presence could create a power vacuum, emboldening militant networks and undermining years of counterterrorism efforts. "If the US withdraws its support, it would hit us hard. It could embolden terrorists to carry out more lethal and audacious attacks, knowing there is no major power backing our fight. This would also dampen the morale of our soldiers who face these threats daily, and place significant economic pressure on affected countries," he said. USAFRICOM currently deploys roughly 6,500 personnel across Africa and has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in security assistance. Without that, Saani worries that Africa will not be able to be fully independent in terms of security. "It will be difficult in terms of logistics and technology — we are simply not there yet. Security is a shared responsibility and works best when it involves multiple actors. In my opinion, Africa cannot do it alone." Russia, China step in to fill security vacuum African countries will need to look for other allies — both new and old, say experts. China has already launched extensive military training programs for African forces, replicating aspects of the US military model, while Russian mercenaries have established themselves as key security partners in North, West and Central Africa. "China's approach in the past has mainly been economic," Saani explained. The US, he pointed out, has primarily focused on military support, in addition to providing economic help. "The Russians have strong presence with both economic and military involvement. It feels like everyone is competing for attention. The clear message is that there's a need to diversify partnerships. We can't rely solely on the US; we may also need to engage more with the Russians and others. " Can Africa succeed alone? Some voices say the lack of US support could be a wake-up call for African countries, forcing them to consider their own resources and rise to the challenge. African nations must now take the opportunity to review their security resources, Saani said, and collaborate more closely. "Building up our defense industry is also critical. This means developing industrial capacity and enhancing the capabilities of our armed forces," he added. "We also need to tackle corruption to ensure that funds are not getting lost in people's pockets but are instead used to improve people's lives."
DW
11-06-2025
- Business
- DW
US shifts Africa security strategy amid global pivot – DW – 06/10/2025
The US military is urging African countries to be more responsible for their own security as the Trump administration focuses on domestic policies. Could the move fuel militant groups and undo counterterrorism progress? Africa should take greater ownership of its own security challenges. That was the message recently communicated by General Michael Langley, head of US Africa Command (USAFRICOM). The unit is part of the US Department of Defense and is responsible for all defense operations and security cooperation on the African continent. The announcement comes as the United States rethinks its military strategy in Africa, signaling a significant shift in its approach to security on the continent. This adjustment aligns with a broader strategic pivot under the Trump administration, which is prioritizing homeland security and a leaner, more lethal military force, while reducing the US military footprint overseas, including in Africa. But what could it mean for the continent? Africa's global relevance With its growing population and vast natural resources, Africa is strategically important to Europe and the United States. "Africa is a strategic partner with a large and growing youth population — projected to double by 2045 according to the African Economic Outlook," Adib Saani, a foreign policy and security analyst, told DW. "The continent is rich, holding vast mineral resources and strategic reserves like uranium that both Western and Eastern countries heavily rely on." The continent was also home to 11 of the world's 20 fastest-growing economies in 2024. "The US and others engage with Africa not just out of goodwill but because these resources are vital for running industries worldwide," Saani said. "This makes the relationship mutually beneficial — a win-win for Africa and the rest of the world." However, the Trump administration's defense strategy has shifted focus away from protecting the US from threats emanating from abroad, including countering terrorist organizations such as the so-called "Islamic State" (IS) militant group and al-Qaeda, which have expanded their presence and capabilities in Africa. How USAID cuts are fueling Africa's humanitarian crises To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video 'Sharing the burden' of US-Africa security operations Previously, US military efforts in Africa combined defense, diplomacy and development. "America has been a close partner in countering violent extremism, especially in Eastern and West Africa," Saani explained. "We have relied heavily on US logistics, training and intelligence sharing to address these threats. In terms of human security, the US has also contributed through USAID and other programs that have helped lift many out of poverty." USAFRICOM head Langley said the military's priorities now focus on homeland protection, encouraging instead "burden sharing" with African partners. He said the goal is to build local military capacity to enable independent operations and reduce reliance on US forces. This shift was evident during the latest African Lion joint military exercise. The annual event is the largest military exercise on the continent and emphasizes combined air, land and sea operations with more than 40 participating nations. The latest edition, in May, lacked the US-led efforts usually apparent and instead focused on collaboration and cooperation. Historically, the US has played in a major role in security operations on the continent, including in Somalia Image: Senior Airman Kristin Savage/Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa/AP Photo/picture alliance What could reduced US involvement mean? Yet foreign policy analyst Adib Saani warned that a diminished US presence could create a power vacuum, emboldening militant networks and undermining years of counterterrorism efforts. "If the US withdraws its support, it would hit us hard. It could embolden terrorists to carry out more lethal and audacious attacks, knowing there is no major power backing our fight. This would also dampen the morale of our soldiers who face these threats daily, and place significant economic pressure on affected countries," he said. USAFRICOM currently deploys roughly 6,500 personnel across Africa and has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in security assistance. Without that, Saani worries that Africa will not be able to be fully independent in terms of security. "It will be difficult in terms of logistics and technology — we are simply not there yet. Security is a shared responsibility and works best when it involves multiple actors. In my opinion, Africa cannot do it alone." Exploiting Africa in the hunt for raw materials To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Russia, China step in to fill security vacuum African countries will need to look for other allies — both new and old, say experts. China has already launched extensive military training programs for African forces, replicating aspects of the US military model, while Russian mercenaries have established themselves as key security partners in North, West and Central Africa. "China's approach in the past has mainly been economic," Saani explained. The US, he pointed out, has primarily focused on military support, in addition to providing economic help. "The Russians have strong presence with both economic and military involvement. It feels like everyone is competing for attention. The clear message is that there's a need to diversify partnerships. We can't rely solely on the US; we may also need to engage more with the Russians and others." Niger: US military operations across the Sahel are at risk To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video Can Africa succeed alone? Some voices say the lack of US support could be a wake-up call for African countries, forcing them to consider their own resources and rise to the challenge. African nations must now take the opportunity to review their security resources, Saani said, and collaborate more closely. "Building up our defense industry is also critical. This means developing industrial capacity and enhancing the capabilities of our armed forces," he added. "We also need to tackle corruption to ensure that funds are not getting lost in people's pockets but are instead used to improve people's lives." Editor: Sarah Hucal
eNCA
31-05-2025
- Politics
- eNCA
Africa reacts to Ramaphosa and Trump meeting
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS - The recent meeting between US President Donald Trump and President Cyril Ramaphosa has raised questions across Africa. As observers debate its impact on US-Africa relations, economic and political considerations are in focus.
The South African
22-05-2025
- Politics
- The South African
Cyril Ramaphosa 'expects' Donald Trump to attend G20 Summit
During a tense but wide-ranging Oval Office meeting on Wednesday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that global cooperation through multilateral platforms such as the G20 was among the key topics discussed with US President Donald Trump. Ramaphosa, who currently holds the rotating presidency of the G20, extended a direct invitation to Trump to attend the upcoming summit, scheduled to take place in South Africa later this year. Emphasising the symbolic and practical importance of US participation, Ramaphosa said he hoped to hand over the presidency 'to a full chair, not an empty one.' 'We also discussed the G20 and we stressed that the G20, having been formed by the United States, of course, together with other countries, it is important that the United States should continue playing a key role,' Ramaphosa told reporters after the meeting. 'I want to hand over the Presidency of the G20 to President Trump in November, and I said he needs to be there. 'I don't want to hand over the Presidency of the G20 to an empty chair. I want to hand it over to him, sitting in that chair in November, and he is going to give serious consideration to it. 'In fact, I expect him to come to South Africa,' he added. The invitation comes amid a period of strained relations between the two countries, with disagreements over land reform, racial violence, and South Africa's international positions. Trump has so far refrained from engaging with several G20 processes under Ramaphosa's chairmanship, and his administration has criticised Pretoria's recent diplomatic stances, including its case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Still, Ramaphosa expressed hope that South Africa's hosting of the G20 summit could mark a turning point in multilateral engagement and US-Africa relations. The G20 summit, to be held in Johannesburg from 22-23 November, will bring together the world's major economies to address pressing global challenges, including economic recovery, climate action, and international security. A confirmed appearance by Donald Trump could signal a renewed commitment by the US to international cooperation under his administration. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
