Good evening! Here's the latest update on the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) as of March 14, 2025:

EU Sanctions Over Congo Violence

The European Union is set to impose sanctions on nine individuals linked to ongoing violence in the DRC. The conflict, involving the M23 rebel group, has resulted in at least 7,000 deaths and displaced 600,000 people since November. Accusations have been made against Rwanda for supporting the M23 rebels, a claim Rwanda denies. The EU has summoned the Rwandan ambassador and is reconsidering its raw materials agreement with Rwanda.

DRC President Considers Talks with M23 Rebels

Facing a series of defeats and diminishing regional support, President Felix Tshisekedi is reconsidering his stance on engaging in dialogue with the M23 rebels. Angola has announced that direct talks between the DRC and M23 are scheduled for March 18 in Luanda. While the DRC government has yet to confirm participation, sources indicate a delegation may be sent. This shift underscores the challenges of a military-only solution and highlights the need for dialogue to prevent further escalation reminiscent of past conflicts.

U.S. and DRC in Mineral Deal Negotiations

The United States and the DRC are negotiating a potential minerals-for-security agreement. This deal would grant U.S. companies exclusive access to certain mineral resources in exchange for security assistance to combat rebel forces. The U.S. Department of State has expressed interest in partnering with the DRC, given its significant reserves of critical minerals essential for advanced technologies. The proposed agreement includes operational control and exclusive extraction rights for U.S. firms, alongside military training and equipment for the DRC's armed forces.

Legal Victory for AVZ in DRC Lithium Dispute

Australian mining company AVZ has secured a legal victory in its dispute over the Manono lithium project in the DRC. An international arbitration court in Paris ordered a DRC state-owned mining company to pay AVZ €39.12 million ($67.5 million) plus interest. This development comes amid AVZ's discussions with the U.S. regarding ownership and development of mining projects in the DRC, reflecting efforts to secure funding and establish critical minerals partnerships.

Please note that situations in the DRC are rapidly evolving.



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Brutally harassed...
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Stay active...
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This violence needs to stop
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