Trump Administration Plans Cold War Powers for Rare Earth Projects

Washington, D.C. – The Trump administration is formulating a strategy to leverage Cold War-era powers to prioritize and fund projects involving rare earth elements, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

Officials are considering utilizing the Defense Production Act to access financing, loans, and other resources for initiatives related to rare earth elements. These projects include mining, processing, and developing downstream technologies aimed at strengthening the domestic supply chain.

Though discussions are ongoing, no specific plan or timeline for implementation has been finalized. The administration views these rare earth projects as crucial to national security, particularly in light of increasing global competition for these vital resources.

The move reflects a growing recognition of the importance of maintaining a robust domestic supply chain for rare earths, which are integral to various high-tech industries, including electronics and renewable energy.

The motivation behind this strategy is to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers and enhance U.S. capabilities in critical technologies. As the dialogue evolves, more details are expected to emerge regarding the scope of the initiatives and the specific projects that will be prioritized.