As tensions between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda threatens the extractive sector, the United States has invited senior officials from both countries for talks aimed at reviving stalled peace efforts pertaining to the ongoing conflict in the eastern DRC, diplomatic sources have said.

Bilateral meetings between the US and each country are scheduled for March 17, with a possible trilateral session on March 18 if progress is achieved. The talks mark a renewed push by Washington to ease tensions between the two neighbors.

The meeting comes weeks after the US Treasury imposed sanctions on the Rwanda Defense Force and four senior officers on March 2, escalating diplomatic pressure over the conflict.

Washington has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, which has been active in eastern DRC, though Kigali has repeatedly denied the allegations.

The M23 rebels launched a rapid offensive in January 2025 and currently control significant territory in the region, contributing to ongoing instability and humanitarian concerns.

The discussions coincide with the Powering Africa Summit in Washington, where multiple African officials are in attendance, raising hopes that renewed diplomatic engagement could help advance peace efforts in the region.