Rare Earth Minerals: The Hidden Power Behind Modern Technology

Rare earth minerals—a group of 17 metals essential for electric vehicles, missile systems, and electronics—are at the center of geopolitical tensions. China dominates global production, controlling 60% of mining and 90% of processing.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump proposed a deal with Ukraine to secure rare earths in exchange for financial support in its war against Russia. Ukraine holds 22 of the 34 critical minerals identified by the EU, but many deposits are in Russian-occupied territory.

Trump has also expressed interest in Greenland’s rare earth reserves, aiming to reduce U.S. reliance on China. The U.S. Geological Survey lists 50 critical minerals, including nickel and lithium, vital for defense and technology.

The complex extraction process makes rare earths economically challenging, with China leading in magnet production. Efforts to develop environmentally friendly separation technologies are underway, but global supply chains remain vulnerable.