DRC: Details of the security agreement signed with Washington finally unveiled

The details of the security cooperation protocol concluded on December 4, 2025, between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the United States have been revealed, according to RFI. Signed by Presidents Félix Tshisekedi and Donald Trump in Washington, this five-year memorandum establishes a framework for military partnership while remaining legally non-binding for both parties.

According to information reported by the French media outlet, the text highlights the securing of critical minerals and rare earth elements from Congolese soil. This component sits alongside the protection of key infrastructure and the defense of the DRC's territorial integrity, which are at the heart of current strategic issues.

The agreement also provides for a vast military training program focused on intelligence, logistics, and engineering units. The stated objective of this partnership is to provide the DRC with the most significant training plan in the Central African region, while developing border surveillance and the sharing of operational information.

However, the delivery of hardware and the modernization of equipment remain subject to strict conditions. U.S. authorities are demanding verifiable progress in terms of human rights, accountability, and the professionalization of troops. Furthermore, no specific budget is guaranteed in advance by Washington at this stage.

Our perspective

Military cooperation must imperatively serve the full sovereignty of the DRC and protect its populations. Linking strategic support to access to critical minerals reminds us of the need for African nations to negotiate as equals, ensuring that their immense wealth primarily benefits their own security and sustainable development.