Europe outpaces Trump in race for Ukrainian rare minerals
The global economy remains reliant on the Russian economy, particularly concerning rare earth metals, which are crucial for the defence sector. Donald Trump's ambition is to strike an agreement with Ukraine regarding these resources. However, there's a hurdle, as someone else "beat him to it." Experts from the Ukrainian service Defense Express suggest that this situation might spark a future confrontation between the USA and Europe.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine led to a series of decisions aimed at cutting off the Russian market from Western technologies. However, the global economy still depends on Moscow, especially in terms of supply chains for vital raw materials.
Chinese tungsten travels through Russia to Europe
Michael Wurmser, head of the Norwegian mining company Norge Mining, noted some time ago that despite sanctions targeting Russia, Europe is still reliant on Moscow for tungsten supplies. This material travels via a railway route from East Asia, through Russia, to Europe.
Why is tungsten so critical? It is essential for the defence sector. Tungsten is used in manufacturing modern tanks and armour-piercing ammunition. Adding tungsten to steel makes it harder and more resistant to penetration. Meanwhile, tungsten cores in shells can penetrate much thicker armour. Ukrainian experts highlight that, paradoxically, Europe must rely on supplies from Russia to produce weapons used against Russia.
Was France first?
As reported by the Ukrainian service Defense Express, which cites a statement from French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu, the government in Paris has been negotiating with Ukraine since October 2023. The talks focus on the discussed rare earth metals.
"Our defence industry will need a certain amount of these key raw materials in our weapon systems not just next year, but for the next 30 or 40 years," stated Sébastien Lecornu. Such a declaration might prompt the USA to adopt a more dynamic policy towards Ukraine.
On the other hand, after the recent exchange of words between the presidents of Ukraine and the United States, no contract was signed regarding rare earth metals. According to experts from Defense Express, the attempt to acquire these resources might become a bone of contention between the USA and Western European countries in the future. As reported by the Ukrainian service, Europe needs these metals for armament production both for its needs and for Ukraine. Acquiring them is aimed at helping Europe break free from supplies running through Russian territory.
