Ebola Outbreak Disrupts Congo Mineral Talks, Threatens Crypto Hardware Supply Chains

The Democratic Republic of Congo is facing two major crises simultaneously - an Ebola outbreak and strained US efforts to secure access to its vast mineral wealth.

The Ebola outbreak, declared in mid-May 2026, has infected 2,011 people and killed 754. In response, the US Embassy in Kinshasa advised against all travel to the region as of July 11, with Americans potentially facing 21-day quarantines upon entry.

The US and DRC were working towards a minerals partnership aimed at weakening China's control over critical mineral supply chains. The effort was based on the February 2026 Critical Minerals Ministerial agreement.

A review meeting scheduled for July was canceled, and discussions have shifted to London and Paris. Cobalt and copper prices are being closely monitored due to concerns that the outbreak may worsen or quarantine restrictions tighten further, potentially pushing prices higher.