Ebola Outbreak Delays U.S.-DR Congo Critical Minerals Partnership

An Ebola outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has disrupted diplomatic travel and delayed negotiations for a U.S.-backed critical minerals partnership. The Government of the United States and the Government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo established the Strategic Partnership Agreement in December 2025 to diversify supply chains for cobalt, copper, lithium, tantalum, and germanium and reduce dependence on China.

The health crisis forced the postponement of a June meeting in Washington and the cancellation of a July review. To maintain momentum, officials shifted some discussions to Paris, Brussels, and London. While the outbreak has impacted diplomacy, existing mining operations in the country remain unaffected.

The World Health Organization reports 2,073 cases and 796 deaths since May 15. In response to the crisis, the United States Department of State is working to contain the virus, and the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa now requires U.S. nationals leaving the country to spend 21 days in another nation before flying to the United States.