Political and business leaders across Africa are expressing growing concern over elements of the United States’ foreign and economic policy under President Donald Trump, particularly aggressive tariff strategies, sanctions and what some describe as “transactional diplomacy.” The reactions come even as the U.S. plays a prominent role in brokering peace initiatives in the Great Lakes region.
Rwanda’s government has publicly signalled caution about external pressures and emphasised the importance of African autonomy in policymaking and regional security. Rwandan President Paul Kagame acknowledged U.S. involvement in regional peace efforts but has underscored that Rwanda’s strategic decisions are guided primarily by national interests.
In late 2025, the Trump administration helped facilitate the Washington Accords, a peace framework aimed at ending decades of conflict between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). At a signing ceremony in Washington, Trump highlighted his role in mediating ceasefire efforts and promoting economic integration between the two countries.
President Kagame described the U.S. approach in Washington as “even-handed, never taking sides,” and focused on measurable outcomes rather than diplomatic rhetoric. However, some African officials and commentators have interpreted the engagement through a more transactional lens, suggesting that U.S. policy prioritises access to strategic minerals and economic leverage over sustainable peacebuilding.
Rwanda has also pushed back against international criticism, including U.S. sanctions targeting figures such as General James Kabarebe, who has been accused by U.S. authorities of involvement in eastern Congo conflicts. Kigali has described such sanctions as counterproductive and disconnected from the complex realities of regional security dynamics.
Observers and independent commentators have criticised the measures, labelling them “absolutely foolish” in the broader context of achieving lasting stability in the region.
At the same time, sweeping U.S. tariff policies, designed to reshape global trade, have unsettled export-oriented African economies. Flat customs tariffs imposed under Trump’s trade agenda triggered negative market reactions globally, and while Rwandan officials publicly suggested that such impacts are manageable, and could even prompt structural economic reforms, the policies have reinforced perceptions of U.S. trade strategy as disruptive to global economic stability.
Across the continent, leaders have voiced concerns about foreign policy approaches that leverage punitive measures, unilateral economic barriers or politically framed interventions. Many governments argue that sustainable peace and development depend on respect for sovereignty, inclusive dialogue and partnerships grounded in mutual benefit rather than transactional leverage.
Rwandan officials have reiterated that the nation’s security posture and growth strategy are driven by internal priorities, not external dictates. Kagame has emphasised Rwanda’s commitment to peace, security and development, even as Kigali navigates a complex regional landscape shaped by economic and geopolitical pressures.
As Africa positions itself within a multipolar global order, many African leaders are advocating for constructive engagement that respects regional agency, promotes economic resilience and strengthens cooperative frameworks, rather than policies perceived to weaponise diplomacy or economics at the expense of local priorities.
