Almost a year has passed since Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) signed a peace agreement in Washington D.C. on June 27, 2025, facilitated by the United States. Yet, both Rwandans and Congolese are still waiting for results, with expectations unmet.

The deal gave 90 days for implementation: DRC was to dismantle the FDLR rebel group, while Rwanda would lift its defensive measures. Multiple meetings of the Joint Supervisory Committee (JSCM) were held to monitor progress, but most concluded with “no movement,” highlighting persistent obstacles.

The biggest issue has been DRC’s lack of commitment to dismantling FDLR. Investigations revealed continued collaboration between FARDC and FDLR, even as they fought against the AFC/M23 coalition in North and South Kivu. Kinshasa shifted the conditions, demanding Rwanda first remove its defenses before tackling FDLR—contradicting the signed agreement.

On March 29, 2026, Lt. Gen. Nduru Jacques Ychaligonza, Deputy Commander of FARDC, announced in Kisangani that FDLR would be forced to surrender. Yet within 48 hours, reports indicated that 700 weapons, mortars, ammunition, and funds were delivered to FDLR in Walikale.

On June 2, 2026, the U.S. sanctioned Gustave Kubwayo (alias Sirkoof), commander of FDLR’s elite CRAP unit, citing ongoing cooperation with FARDC in North Kivu.

On June 10, 2026, Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe told Radio B&B that Ychaligonza’s Kisangani visit was triggered by U.S. pressure, but DRC contradicted its pledges by reinforcing FDLR instead of dismantling it.