Trump Invokes Defense Production Act to Bolster U.S. Mineral Supply

The executive order aims to reduce reliance on foreign minerals, expedite domestic mining, and finalize a rare earth deal with Ukraine.

President Donald Trump signed an executive order invoking the Defense Production Act to expand U.S. critical mineral production, citing national security concerns.
The order establishes a critical minerals fund, streamlines permitting processes, and prioritizes mining on federal lands to boost domestic output.
Trump announced plans to finalize a rare earth minerals deal with Ukraine, which would secure U.S. access to Ukraine's significant mineral reserves.
The U.S.-Ukraine deal is framed as a way for Ukraine to repay U.S. support during its conflict with Russia, with negotiations continuing after prior delays.
The initiative seeks to counter China's dominance in critical mineral production and processing, which is seen as a strategic vulnerability for the U.S.