Race for rare earths: US, Russia and other nations chase minerals beyond China

A worldwide rush to tap the Arctic’s resources is accelerating as countries look for alternatives to China’s stronghold over strategic minerals. Melting ice and improving access have drawn renewed interest to the largely undeveloped polar region, which is increasingly viewed as a potential source of rare earths, base metals and new trade routes, as per CNBC. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly highlighted the strategic value of Greenland, describing U.S. control of the territory as an “absolute necessity” for both economic and security reasons. Canada has also stepped up investment in the region amid strained ties with Washington, while Moscow continues to position itself as a major Arctic power. Russian President Vladimir Putin recently praised the launch of a new nuclear-power