```html DR Congo-Rwanda Peace Deal Faces Skepticism Despite Washington Signing

A peace agreement signed between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) and Rwanda in Washington has been met with cautious optimism and outright skepticism, particularly in eastern DR Congo, a region ravaged by decades of conflict.

The deal, brokered by the United States, aims to disengage, disarm, and conditionally integrate armed groups operating in eastern DR Congo. However, its lack of specific details and the exclusion of key actors, such as the M23 rebel group, have raised concerns about its potential effectiveness.

Mixed Reactions to the Agreement

While some view the agreement as a potential turning point, others, including former Congolese President Joseph Kabila, have dismissed it as a superficial "trade agreement." Kabila questioned the focus on Rwanda and the US, arguing that the core issue lies within DR Congo itself.

In Goma, a city in eastern DR Congo under rebel influence, residents have expressed reservations. "How can they say they sign for peace, yet they have not involved M23?" one resident asked, highlighting the perceived lack of inclusivity in the negotiation process.

Another resident, a motorbike taxi driver, voiced widespread fatigue with peace talks that have historically failed to deliver lasting results. "People are tired, they are not interested in talks," he said. "All they want is peace."

The M23 Conflict: A Deep-Rooted Crisis

The conflict in eastern DR Congo is deeply rooted in ethnic tensions, competition for resources, and regional power struggles. The M23, a predominantly Tutsi rebel group, has been a major player in the region for years. Renewed fighting earlier this year saw the M23 seize control of significant territory, displacing hundreds of thousands of people.

The DR Congo government has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23, a claim Kigali vehemently denies. The United Nations has also reported evidence of Rwandan involvement, further complicating the already fragile situation.

In response to the escalating conflict, the DR Congo government reportedly sought assistance from the United States, offering access to its vast mineral wealth in exchange for security guarantees. Eastern DR Congo is rich in coltan and other resources crucial to the global electronics industry, making it a key strategic area.

Expert Analysis: Justice and Inclusivity are Crucial

Sam Zarifi, executive director at Physicians for Human Rights (PHR), emphasizes the importance of justice and human rights in any lasting peace agreement. "There can be no durable peace without meaningful justice," he stated. "But the agreement...sidelines human rights and fails survivors."

Zarifi also cautioned against overlooking the role of proxy armed groups, stating that hostilities can continue through these entities, which PHR research has shown are responsible for serious violations. "The agreement overlooks how hostilities can continue through proxy armed groups that our research has shown are responsible for serious violations."

Stephanie Marungu, head of a humanitarian organization in Goma, offered a more optimistic perspective. "The signing of the deal…is a momentous and hopeful development for the eastern region," she said, adding that it could lead to increased stability and improved access for humanitarian aid. However, she also acknowledged the potential challenges in implementing the agreement.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

The conflict in eastern DR Congo is not new. The region has been plagued by instability for decades, with numerous peace agreements failing to bring lasting stability. The current crisis is a continuation of this history, fueled by unresolved grievances and ongoing competition for resources.

The absence of M23 representatives from the Washington talks raises serious questions about the long-term viability of the agreement. Without the involvement of all key stakeholders, it is unlikely that a lasting peace can be achieved.

It remains to be seen whether the Washington deal will translate into tangible improvements on the ground. Concerns persist that the agreement may primarily benefit a select few, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities and further marginalizing ordinary Congolese citizens. The true test of the agreement will be its ability to deliver lasting peace, justice, and development to the people of eastern DR Congo. ```