Congo War Security Review: Diplomatic Efforts for Military Assistance
The Congo War Security Review outlines the ongoing conflict dynamics between M23 forces and Congolese government forces as of March 5, 2025. It reports no major developments in military engagements across several regions, but highlights President Tshisekedi’s efforts to secure military assistance through strategic mineral agreements with the United States and UAE. The proposal echoes previous DRC-UAE agreements and mirrors successful models in Ukraine.
The Congo War Security Review is a comprehensive daily update regarding the ongoing conflict involving M23 forces, their Rwandan supporters, and pro-Congolese government entities in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This review is released on weekdays and provides insights into military engagements, strategic agreements, and political developments. Requests for map shapefiles can be directed via email.
As of the latest data cutoff on March 5, 2025, there have been no significant developments reported across various military axes, including the Northern, Southern, Northwest, and Southwest Axes. Each of these regions has remained stable without notable incidents during this period.
A critical political development emerged as President Félix Tshisekedi of the DRC announced the dispatch of key officials, alongside representatives from the mining industry, to the United States and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This mission centered on establishing strategic mineral partnerships in exchange for military support, highlighting the urgency of addressing the ongoing conflict.
Reports from Africa Intelligence indicate that the DRC is exploring an arrangement with the UAE for a copper and cobalt mining site in the Katanga region, although these negotiations may face challenges due to existing Chinese dominance in the mining sector. Additionally, President Tshisekedi expressed in an interview that the United States and European Union could benefit significantly from Congo’s mineral wealth.
Moreover, a senior DRC official has reinforced a proposal from the Africa-USA Business Council. This proposal seeks to grant mineral extraction rights to US firms in exchange for military assistance, with incentives including partnerships in developing the Banana Port and establishing a joint strategic mineral stockpile. The offerings aim to replicate successful strategies in Ukraine.
The arrangement for the Banana port is reminiscent of a previous deal between the DRC and UAE in 2021, where DP World acquired a majority stake in the port for substantial investment and military support. This ongoing dialogue about mineral rights and military cooperation may signal an evolving relationship between the DRC and external partners facing regional instability.
The Congo War Security Review highlights recent diplomatic initiatives by President Félix Tshisekedi to secure military assistance through strategic mineral partnerships with the United States and UAE. While the military situation remains stable across various axes, the proposed economic arrangements reflect a significant evolution in DRC’s approach to addressing ongoing regional conflicts. These negotiations may pave the way for increased international involvement in the Congolese mining sector, potentially impacting the broader geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.criticalthreats.org
