In a groundbreaking appeal, Félix Tshisekedi, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has reached out to former President Donald J. Trump, offering exclusive control over an estimated $24 trillion worth of critical minerals in exchange for U.S. assistance in combatting violent rebel forces disturbing peace in the region.

A letter obtained by The Wall Street Journal reveals Tshisekedi's strategic proposal, which seeks to bolster Trump's recently launched U.S. Sovereign Wealth Fund—an initiative designed to reshape global investment through pro-American partnerships. “Your election has ushered in the golden age for America,” Tshisekedi stated, emphasizing the potential for a collaborative effort that would benefit U.S. interests in securing vital resources like cobalt, lithium, copper, and tantalum.

The timing of this overture could not be more critical. Tshisekedi's offer aligns with Trump's “America First 2.0” economic agenda, which aims to reclaim supply chains from foreign powers and solidify U.S. dominance over essential minerals, pivotal for the energy transition. With the DRC accounting for nearly 68% of the world’s cobalt production, control over these resources could represent a seismic shift in the global mineral market.

In exchange for American access to these untapped deposits, Tshisekedi is requesting formal U.S. security support to combat the M23 rebel group, a faction backed by Rwandan President Paul Kagame, which has gained ground in eastern Congo, taking control of key mineral-rich areas amidst a longstanding legacy of violence tied to the 1994 Rwandan genocide.

Tshisekedi expressed urgency in addressing the DRC's challenges during a recent interview with Fox News anchor Bret Baier. “We want to extract these [$24 trillion untapped minerals] but also process them, which would create many jobs,” he stated, highlighting the need for a partnership that promotes lasting peace and stability within the region.

Despite China's significant influence in Congolese mineral extraction and infrastructure, Tshisekedi downplayed fears of Chinese interference, signaling a desire for a transparent and equitable relationship with the United States—an invitation for a new partnership that aims to not only stabilize the DRC but also secure critical resources for America’s future.