Misleading Claims on DRC Mineral Control and Military Intervention

African Hub misquoted DRC President Tshisekedi regarding military support and control over minerals. Tshisekedi clarified his intent to invite international companies to purchase DRC minerals directly, emphasizing that the offer extends beyond the USA to European nations as well. The DRC is grappling with conflict fueled by the M23 rebels, with international responses evolving in light of the situation.

African Hub, a prominent content creator on X with over 800,000 followers, misrepresented a statement made by DRC President Félix Tshisekedi regarding international military involvement and control over the country’s mineral resources. Contrary to the claims made in a viral post, Tshisekedi did not request US military intervention nor did he offer control over his nation’s vast resources during a February 20th interview with The New York Times. Instead, Tshisekedi expressed hope for international investments and pressure against Rwanda to foster stability in the DRC.

Tina Salama, the spokesperson for President Tshisekedi, clarified on X that Tshisekedi aims to invite the USA to procure strategic raw materials directly from the DRC, in light of the ongoing violence and resource exploitation fueled by armed groups in the region. Salama emphasized that the President’s offer extended to European nations as well. This statement stands in stark contrast to African Hub’s fabricated narrative.

The DRC is currently embroiled in conflict, with the Rwanda-backed M23 rebels seizing significant territories. Tshisekedi accuses Rwanda of exploiting DRC’s resources through these armed groups. In a recent development, the European Union halted a $935 million agreement with Rwanda for mineral access, indicating a shift in international strategy regarding this ongoing conflict. The EU is now considering sanctions against Kigali in response to its alleged role in the DRC’s turmoil.

Following the pattern of escalating international scrutiny, the UK has imposed sanctions on Rwanda, suspending financial aid and training assistance. Furthermore, the U.S. Treasury has enacted sanctions against James Kabarebe, a Rwandan official implicated in supporting M23 rebels. These actions reflect increased global awareness and condemnation of Rwanda’s involvement in the DRC’s unstable landscape.

President Tshisekedi has extended an invitation to international companies to purchase minerals directly from the DRC, a move aimed at addressing the illegal trade facilitated by Rwanda. Contrary to misleading claims, he did not seek military intervention nor offer control over natural resources. Salama’s clarifications highlight the President’s intent to reinstate rightful ownership of DRC’s resources amid ongoing conflict.

Original Source: www.voanews.com