Rwandan President Paul Kagame has cast doubt on the durability of a newly signed peace deal with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), warning that Rwanda will respond decisively if provoked.

In his first public appearance since early June, Kagame on Friday reaffirmed Rwanda’s commitment to the U.S.-brokered agreement but questioned its future, placing the responsibility squarely on Kinshasa to dismantle the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), a rebel group accused of links to the 1994 genocide.

Speaking in Kigali, Kagame stated, “If our counterpart plays games and reignites the conflict, we will handle it the way we always have.”

He stressed that while Rwanda is willing to uphold the terms of the deal, the success of the peace effort depends on Congo’s actions.

The agreement, signed last week, provides a 90-day roadmap for the withdrawal of Rwandan forces from eastern DRC, where tensions have escalated sharply in recent months.

The United Nations has accused Rwanda of backing the M23 rebel group, which has seized several key towns this year.

Kigali has consistently denied the allegations, saying its troops are only operating in self-defense against FDLR and hostile Congolese forces.

Kagame expressed appreciation to the U.S. for mediating the talks, particularly the administration of President Donald Trump, saying, “The U.S. cannot be blamed if the agreement collapses.”

As of Friday, the Congolese government had not issued a response to Kagame’s remarks. Authorities in Kinshasa have long accused Rwanda of supporting rebel activity in the volatile eastern region.

Kagame’s appearance also put to rest weeks of speculation about his health after nearly three weeks out of the public eye.

His absence had sparked intense speculation among exiled opposition figures, including David Himbara, a former aide now living in Canada, who repeatedly claimed that Kagame was seriously ill.

In a dismissive response to the rumours, Kagame said, “Some of my health issues might come from dealing with people like you,” prompting laughter from those in attendance. He added, “What’s the issue? Am I not allowed to be human?”

Meanwhile, the Congolese government and the M23 rebel group have announced plans to resume peace talks in Qatar. These negotiations are expected to build on the progress made during the U.S.-led mediation.

In addition, the Trump administration has hinted at the possibility of a major investment package, focused on integrating the conflict-hit region into global mineral supply chains. The offer could see international backing for access to resources like tantalum, copper, and gold—should both sides maintain a peaceful course