Global Race for Critical Minerals Intensifies as Nations Seek Strategic Supplies

The U.S., UK, and China vie for control over vital materials essential to technology, green energy, and defense industries.

Critical minerals, including rare earth elements, are central to modern technologies such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, and defense systems.
The U.S. is heavily reliant on imports for many of these minerals, with China dominating both mining and processing capabilities globally.
Donald Trump’s administration is pursuing deals with Ukraine and Greenland to reduce U.S. dependence on China for rare earth elements.
The UK faces concerns over falling behind in securing critical mineral supplies, with experts urging greater government investment in domestic mining and recycling industries.
Russia’s control of mineral-rich Ukrainian territories has added complexity to global supply chains, with potential geopolitical implications for Western nations.