Donald Trump is facing fresh criticism after making a confusing and awkward comment about the Democratic Republic of the Congo during a recent speech. While speaking from the Oval Office on April 17, Trump addressed an upcoming agreement between the U.S. and Congo involving minerals. However, his six-word remark left many questioning how much he actually knows about the country or the deal.
The deal is reportedly close to being finalized and involves U.S. companies working with Congo to access valuable minerals from the central African nation. A senior U.S. adviser for Africa, Massad Boulos, had earlier met with Congolese President Félix Tshisekedi to discuss the partnership. Despite the serious nature of the talks, Trump seemed unfamiliar with the topic. In a clip posted online, he said, “Many people come from the Congo. I don’t know what that is.”
His comment quickly went viral on social media, with one user posting: “WTF. In an unbelievable showing of stupidity, Donald Trump admits he doesn’t know where the Congo in Africa is: ‘many people come from the Congo. I don’t know what that is.’ He is the dumbest president we ever had.”
People reacted strongly to the moment. Some were stunned by what they saw as a total lack of awareness, especially from someone who once had access to nuclear weapons. One person commented, “Geography matters when you’re leading a nation.” Another added, “This isn’t just ignorance; it’s dangerous.”
A few tried to defend Trump, saying he might not have meant he didn’t know where Congo is, just that he didn’t understand the situation or what “the Congo” referred to in that moment. Supporters even praised his honesty, claiming he simply says what others wouldn’t dare admit.
The comment comes at a time when the U.S. is actively exploring ways to support Congo in securing and managing its mineral resources. Erik Prince, a known Trump ally, has reportedly agreed to help the Congolese government develop and tax its mineral wealth. Although there is no clear explanation yet on how Trump’s administration will be directly involved, it seems American companies could soon play a major role.
Massad Boulos, who is also Tiffany Trump’s father-in-law, said they had reviewed Congo’s proposal and agreed on a plan to move forward. He assured that U.S. companies would act transparently and support local economic growth.
Congolese lawmakers have emphasized how important it is for the two countries to work together, especially in supporting peace and development in the region.
Still, Trump’s offhand remark has raised concerns about his understanding of international affairs, and many feel that a president—former or current—should know more about one of the world’s most resource-rich and strategically important nations.
