Trump Orders Increased U.S. Mineral Production, Raising Questions Over DRC Partnership
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced new measures to boost domestic mineral production, including critical minerals, uranium, copper, potash, and gold.
The Trump administration stated that the move addresses the “grave” security and economic risks posed by U.S. dependence on foreign mineral supplies, particularly from hostile nations.
Under the directive, the Secretary of the Interior and White House economic and security advisers must, within 10 days, identify all federal lands with known mineral deposits.
“The Secretary of the Interior shall prioritize mineral production and mining-related activities as primary land uses in these areas, consistent with applicable laws,” the White House stated.
Trump’s policy also mandates that all mineral extraction, processing, refining, and smelting take place within U.S. borders, reducing reliance on foreign sources. The initiative is part of the “Do More in America” campaign to expand domestic mineral production.
Trump’s new policy comes amid ongoing discussions between Washington and Kinshasa regarding access to the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) mineral resources in exchange for security guarantees.
Last week, DRC President Félix Tshisekedi told Le Figaro that he seeks a “win-win” partnership with the U.S., ensuring local mineral processing to increase value and build a domestic supply chain rather than simply exporting raw materials.
The U.S. State Department had recently signaled willingness to discuss mineral extraction agreements with the DRC, potentially offering security assistance.
On March 16, Tshisekedi met Ronny Jackson, identified as Trump’s special envoy, in Kinshasa. “We want to create an environment where American companies can invest in the DRC, but that requires peace and stability,” Jackson said, according to the Congolese presidency.
With Trump’s latest directive focusing on domestic mineral production, it remains uncertain whether the U.S.-DRC mineral deal will move forward as previously envisioned.
19 total views , 8 views today
