Rwanda and DR Congo Delegations Begin Talks on Dismantling FDLR Rebel Group

Rwandan and Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) officials have opened discussions on the second phase of a joint security plan aimed at implementing the Washington peace agreement signed earlier this year, with a central focus on dismantling the FDLR, a long-standing armed group operating in eastern Congo.

The talks took place during the fourth meeting of the Joint Security Coordination Mechanism (JSCM), the bilateral platform created to monitor progress on commitments made under the June 27, 2025 Washington D.C. agreement.

According to a statement posted on X by Massad Boulos, the United States Presidential Advisor on Africa Partnerships, both countries reviewed advances made under the first phase of the peace roadmap and formally initiated discussions on phase two, which includes neutralizing FDLR and lifting Rwanda’s defensive measures along the border. “Rwanda and the DRC reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the security operations framework,” Boulos said. “JSCM members assessed progress achieved in the first phase and began talks on the second phase, which involves dismantling the FDLR and removing Rwanda’s defensive posture.”

Regional and International Delegations Present

The meeting brought together representatives from Rwanda and the DRC, alongside observers from Qatar and Togo, the latter being designated by the African Union as an official mediator in the peace process.

In September 2025, both countries had already pledged to fully implement all measures required to restore peace by the end of the year.

Understanding CONOPS: The Core of the Peace Plan

Central to the discussions is the Concept of Operations (CONOPS), a joint operational framework agreed upon to eliminate the FDLR and address long-standing security grievances between Kigali and Kinshasa.

Initially endorsed on October 31, 2024, during intelligence-led meetings in Angola, CONOPS later became the backbone of the Washington D.C. peace treaty. Although the DRC initially objected to signing the framework, it eventually accepted it as part of broader commitments to regional stability.

Under CONOPS:

The DRC is required to dismantle the FDLR, support the repatriation of ex-combatants back to Rwanda, and ensure stability in the Great Lakes region.

It must also facilitate the return of refugees and displaced populations.

Rwanda, on its part, is expected to lift defensive measures established along its borders and continue reintegration programs for former FDLR fighters a process Rwanda has pursued for more than 25 years.

The Washington D.C. agreement also emphasizes respect for sovereignty, preventing cross-border hostility, cessation of hostilities, disarmament of non-state armed groups, and comprehensive reintegration efforts.

Timeline: 90 Days to Complete Key Security Actions

The JSCM has been given a strict 90-day timeline to complete the main security actions, including the destruction of FDLR structures and the de-escalation of Rwanda’s border defenses.

However, this countdown did not begin at the signing of the Washington agreement. Instead, it started during the first JSCM meeting held in August 2025, meaning several deadlines are now fast approaching.

A Critical Test for Rwanda DRC Relations

The dismantling of the FDLR an armed group made up largely of individuals linked to the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi remains one of the biggest obstacles in Rwanda-DRC relations. Successful implementation of CONOPS could mark a turning point in decades of mistrust and repeated cycles of conflict in eastern Congo.

As the JSCM continues its work, regional and international actors will be closely monitoring whether both countries fulfill their obligations, paving the way for lasting peace in one of Africa’s most volatile regions.