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Donald Trump’s administration views Ukraine as a key partner in the supply of rare earth metals, and one of the main factors behind this interest is competition with China. According to Reuters, China, which Trump has repeatedly accused of unfair economic policies and threatened a trade war, remains the world’s largest producer of rare earth metals, which are strategically important for the defence, technology and automotive industries.
Why are rare earth metals so important?
Rare earth metals are used to produce magnets in electric vehicles, weapons and high-tech electronics. The US has historically had its own rare earths industry, which began to develop rapidly during World War II, and US military scientists even developed the most common type of rare earth magnet.
However, over the past 30 years, China has taken control of the entire sector, gradually displacing competitors and securing a dominant position in the global market.
US dependence on Chinese imports
According to the US Geological Survey for 2025, 70% of imported rare earth metals come from China. At the same time, the United States has only one mine producing these metals, but no facilities for their full processing. This creates a vulnerability for US industry and the defence sector.
Ukraine’s role in the US strategy
Ukraine has significant reserves of rare earth metals, making it a potential strategic partner for the US in its efforts to reduce its dependence on China. Washington is actively working to secure access to Ukraine’s resources and secure a new agreement on the supply of critical minerals.
The move is part of a broader US strategy to strengthen its independence from China in key technological and military areas.
