An influencer misrepresented President Tshisekedi’s comments regarding DRC’s mineral resources and U.S. military intervention. Tshisekedi clarified that he invited international companies to buy resources directly from the DRC, not through military exchange. This invitation aims to combat Rwanda’s illegal resource exploitation, with European countries also included in negotiations.
African Hub, an influential content creator on X (formerly Twitter), has garnered significant attention for misrepresenting a statement by DRC President Felix Tshisekedi. The influencer claimed that Tshisekedi requested U.S. military intervention in exchange for control over the DRC’s abundant mineral resources. This assertion is misleading and has been widely circulated following Tsisekedi’s interview on February 20 with The New York Times.
In the interview, President Tshisekedi did not propose any arrangement for U.S. control over mineral resources or suggest military intervention. Instead, he expressed a desire for international pressure on Rwanda and invited Western investments to help stabilize his country, which is currently besieged by conflict.
Tina Salama, spokesperson for the DRC president, sought to clarify these misrepresentations via a post on X on February 23. She noted, “Setting the record straight: President Tshisekedi invites the USA… to purchase them directly from us, the rightful owners,” disputing the claims made by African Hub regarding military intervention and control over DRC resources.
It is important to highlight that the eastern DRC is currently experiencing significant violence, largely due to the M23 rebels, who are reportedly backed by Rwanda. The DRC is rich in essential minerals, including coltan and cobalt, vital for the electronics and electric vehicle industries.
Furthermore, Salama underscored that Tshisekedi’s invitation was not limited to the United States alone but extended to European nations. She reiterated, “And it’s not just the Americans, it’s also offered to Europeans and all the receivers of our resources who get their supplies from Rwanda.” This illustrates a broader commitment to international cooperation regarding DRC’s resources.
In February 2024, the European Union negotiated a deal with Rwanda worth $935 million, granting access to critical minerals. However, Tshisekedi has accused Rwanda of unlawfully exploiting DRC’s resources through M23 rebels, with European involvement allegedly facilitating this trade.
In response to these concerns, the EU has suspended its agreement with Rwanda and is contemplating sanctions against Kigali for its involvement in the DRC conflict. Notably, on February 25, the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on Rwanda and paused $146 million in bilateral financial aid, marking a significant international development. The U.S. Treasury Department has also sanctioned James Kabarebe, a Rwandan official, for his role in supporting M23 rebels.
In summary, President Tshisekedi of the DRC has invited international companies to engage directly with DRC for mineral purchase and has not sought military assistance or promised resource control. His spokesperson clarified that the mineral negotiations are open to various international entities, aiming to counteract Rwanda’s illegal resource trade facilitated by the M23 rebels.
Original Source: www.voanews.com
