France's rare earth pact with Ukraine stirs US‑Europe tension
The global economy remains closely tied to Russia, especially concerning rare earth metals, which are vital for the defence sector. Donald Trump aims to reach an agreement with Ukraine regarding these resources, but there is an issue, as someone else 'got there first'. Experts from the Ukrainian service Defence Express suggest this might ignite a new confrontation between the USA and Europe in the future.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine prompted several decisions aimed at severing the Russian market from Western technologies. However, the global economy still relies on Moscow, particularly in terms of supply chains for key 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 against Russia, Europe continues to depend on Moscow for tungsten supplies. This material is transported via a railway route from East Asia, through Russia, to Europe.
Why is tungsten so critical? It plays a crucial role in the defence sector. Tungsten is used in the production of modern tanks and armour-piercing ammunition. Adding tungsten to steel increases its hardness and resistance to penetration. Additionally, tungsten cores in shells can pierce much thicker armour. Ukrainian experts highlight a paradox: Europe relies on Russian supplies to manufacture weapons to counter Russia.
Was France first?
According to the Ukrainian service Defence Express, citing French Defence Minister Sébastien Lecornu, the French government has been negotiating with Ukraine since October 2024. The discussions revolve around these rare earth metals.
"Our defence industry will require a certain amount of essential raw materials for our weapons systems, not just next year, but for the next 30 or 40 years," says Sébastien Lecornu. Such a statement could potentially encourage the USA to adopt a more dynamic policy towards Ukraine.
However, after the recent exchange between the presidents of Ukraine and the United States, no agreement was reached concerning rare earth metals. According to experts from Defence Express, the quest to secure these resources might eventually become a contentious issue between the USA and Western European countries. As reported by the Ukrainian service, Europe needs these metals for armament production for both its own needs and Ukraine’s. Their acquisition aims to free Europe from supply routes that pass through Russian territory.
