Ruto welcomes ‘historic’ Rwanda–DRC peace deal as he praises President Trump

In a statement issued after attending the signing ceremony at the Donald J. Trump United States Institute of Peace, President Ruto said the accord, dubbed The Washington Accord, marks a decisive turning point for a region long plagued by violence, instability, and humanitarian suffering.

“The protracted conflict in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo has endured far beyond what humanity can reasonably bear. For decades, it has claimed innumerable lives and driven countless families from the safety of their homes," said President Ruto.

He went on: “A generation of children has been stripped of its innocence, deprived of education, and denied the simple promise of a stable childhood. Normal commercial activity and cross-border trade- lifelines of regional prosperity- have been gravely disrupted, stalling development and deepening hardship.”

"We extend our sincere gratitude to the President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, for his steadfast commitment and decisive leadership in helping bring this historic agreement to fruition," Ruto said.

According to President Ruto, the Washington Accord offers the strongest opportunity in decades to restore lasting stability and unlock a new era of cooperation and prosperity between Rwanda and the DRC.

“This prolonged suffering is a profound injustice to the people of Eastern DRC, who deserve lasting stability and the chance to build a peaceful, dignified, and prosperous future,” he said.

Ruto urged all parties to fully honour and implement the terms of the agreement, emphasizing that its success will be measured by the ability of displaced families to return home, rebuild their lives, and regain their dignity.

He reiterated Kenya’s continued support for regional peace-building initiatives, affirming that sustainable stability in Eastern DRC is essential not only for its citizens but for the wider East and Central African region.

The Washington Accord is expected to establish mechanisms for de-escalation, the cessation of hostilities, and renewed cooperation between Kigali and Kinshasa - two nations whose strained relations have been linked to persistent conflict in the mineral-rich region.

Other Heads of State present at the signing ceremony were Togolese President of the Council of Ministers Faure Gnassingbé, Angolan President João Lourenço, Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, Kenyan President William Ruto, African Union Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Ugandan Vice President Jessica Alupo, Qatari Minister of State Dr. Mohammed Al Khulaifi and Emirati Minister of State Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan.