One year after M23 rebels seized the eastern Congolese city of Goma, the conflict's impact is now extending beyond the battlefield and into international diplomacy.

The leader of a powerful rebel coalition that includes M23 has sharply criticised a new strategic partnership between the Democratic Republic of Congo and the United States, warning that the deal could be unenforceable in rebel-held territory rich in critical minerals.

In an interview with Reuters, Corneille Nangaa, head of the Alliance Fleuve Congo, described the agreement as unconstitutional, opaque, and legally flawed, raising fresh doubts over US investment plans in eastern Congo, where much of the country's valuable mineral wealth remains under insurgent control.

Lulu Gaboo spoke to visiting Professor of International Law at Wits University Law School, Professor Mia Swart....