Trump to Host DRC, Rwanda Leaders as Kenya Calls for Stronger Peace Push
The high-level meeting comes amid renewed tensions in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), following recent territorial gains by the Rwanda-backed M23 rebel group, including the strategic cities of Goma and Bukavu in the Kivu region.
While a ceasefire deal was signed in Washington on June 27 between the DRC and Rwanda, its terms remain unimplemented. Trump has touted the agreement as a breakthrough in a decades-long conflict, but critics have raised concerns over its vague provisions—particularly regarding the economic framework, given U.S. interest in the region's vast mineral wealth.
Kenya Calls for Continued Support
In a parallel diplomatic push, Kenya on Wednesday called on both the United States and Qatar to intensify support for the Luanda-Nairobi Process, a dual-track regional peace initiative aiming to resolve the conflict and address its root causes.
Kenyan Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Musalia Mudavadi said in a statement that sustained U.S. and Qatari backing for the process is 'critical' to achieving long-term peace and stability in the Great Lakes region.
'The unified process is a cornerstone for building a sustainable solution to the conflict,' Mudavadi said, urging all stakeholders to honor the ceasefire and political commitments reached so far.
The Luanda-Nairobi Process comprises two key tracks: the Luanda track, focusing on political dialogue and ceasefire, and the Nairobi track, led by the East African Community, which includes both political negotiations and military interventions by regional forces.
Qatar's Mediation Role
Diplomatic sources told AFP that Qatar is preparing to host new talks between the DRC government and the M23 movement, aiming to broaden the scope of the Washington-brokered peace deal. Qatar previously played a key role in mediating the June agreement, alongside the U.S.
In a symbolic show of engagement, Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani met with Presidents Tshisekedi and Kagame in Doha in March 2025.
Mudavadi also welcomed the African Union's endorsement of the regional mediation efforts, describing the peace process as 'a major milestone' that could pave the way for disarming armed groups, establishing a joint security mechanism, and enabling the safe return of displaced populations.
He added that ending hostilities in eastern DRC is essential to unlocking regional economic growth and long-term political stability across Central and East Africa.
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There's no robots or automation that can replace a trained soldier, airman, marine.' Easley agreed, saying South Korea's military would still face shortages in manpower in the event of war. And a broader challenge remains: how do authorities change cultural attitudes toward the military within South Korea? While people can volunteer to become professional cadres who serve longer terms and train with more advanced weapons, the number of applicants has dropped steadily over the years. High-profile cases of hazing, bullying and harassment within the South Korean military may have contributed to negative perceptions of the force. In recent years, the government has loosened restrictions on conscripts – including allowing them to use cell phones at certain times of the day – and offered a longer civilian service alternative to conscription. But that's not enough, said Choi. 'We need to improve military welfare and fighting spirits as a whole,' he said – adding that supporting the current size of the military will become even harder in the coming decades as the population declines further. 'By 2040s, even maintaining 350,000 troops will be difficult, and that is why we need to establish an optimized manpower structure system … as soon as possible.'
