US President Trump is pursuing rare earth minerals in Greenland and Ukraine to limit China’s control over these key resources. Russia’s recent offer to provide access to its rare earth reserves may support Trump’s plan, as the US seeks to strengthen its position amidst China’s tightening export controls on these crucial materials.
US President Donald Trump is focused on securing rare earth minerals from Greenland and Ukraine as a strategy to counter China’s significant control over these crucial materials. However, the actual availability of global reserves may not align with Trump’s expectations. Recently, Russia has proposed providing the US access to essential rare earth resources, potentially aiding Trump’s initiatives and lessening China’s grip on exports of these critical minerals.
Rare earth elements comprise a group of 17 minerals integral for manufacturing electronics, superconductors, magnets, defense systems, and green technologies. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), Greenland holds the eighth largest reserve of 1.5 million tonnes, slightly less than the US’s 1.9 million tonnes. In contrast, China boasts the largest reserves, totaling 44 million tonnes.
Ukraine lacks a defined share of rare earth reserves according to the USGS database, while Russia ranks fifth globally, with an estimated 3.8 million tonnes of these critical minerals. This positions Russia favorably to assist the US in reducing dependence on China, which has tightened export regulations on rare earth materials.
In summary, while Trump seeks to secure rare earth minerals from Greenland and Ukraine to mitigate China’s dominance, the reality of global reserves may pose challenges. Russia’s offer to provide access to its substantial rare earth resources presents a potential solution, allowing the US to diversify its sources and reduce reliance on Chinese exports.
Original Source: www.scmp.com
