Unusual moments at the Rwanda–DRC peace deal signing
On Thursday, December 4, 2025, in Washington, United States of America, an agreement was signed between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo after 30 years of conflict between the two countries.
These conflicts had mainly affected eastern Congo, where the M23 rebel group is currently the major issue destabilizing the region. The group is believed by some to be supported by Rwanda, although Rwanda denies this.
Highlights and Odd Moments From the Signing Ceremony
1. Kagame and Tshisekedi Refused to Shake Hands
In international treaty signings, shaking hands is a powerful gesture of reconciliation. However, in all the footage captured by the media, President Kagame and President Tshisekedi never shook hands nor made any physical contact. Both greeted President Trump, but never greeted each other. This immediately sparked debate on social media, with many questioning whether the agreement can be trusted if even basic diplomatic etiquette was not observed.
2. Tshisekedi Held Up a Closed Book While Others Opened Theirs
When presenting the signed agreements, Presidents Kagame and Trump held up their treaty folders open, as is customary. But President Tshisekedi spent nearly a full minute displaying his folder while it was still closed. Protocol officers had to approach him and ask him to open it. Even after opening it, he continued holding it awkwardly, creating confusion.
3. President Trump Mispronounced Tshisekedi’s Name
In his speech, Trump said: “I want to thank my friend presidents, President Kisekise…” when he was actually trying to say President Tshisekedi’s name.
4. Tshisekedi’s Unhappy Expression
Videos circulating on social media showed President Tshisekedi appearing visibly unhappy. Even in the official photo taken with Trump and Kagame, he did not smile. This quickly triggered questions and debates among analysts and social media users wondering whether Tshisekedi was genuinely satisfied with the agreement.
5. Trump Claimed Paul Kagame and Tshisekedi ‘Love Each Other’
In a surprising moment, President Trump commented on the supposed warmth between the Rwandan and Congolese leaders despite the fact that they never shook hands. Trump said, “Look how much they love each other.”
The ceremony was also attended by other African heads of state, who were praised by President Trump for their commitment and were given time to make their public remarks.
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