Rare Minerals Fuel New Global Conflicts
Rare minerals like lithium and cobalt are driving global conflicts from the DRC to Ukraine amid rising demand for green tech.
Rare Minerals: A New Catalyst for Global Conflicts
KINSHASA, Democratic Republic of the Congo — March 26, 2025
From the mineral-rich landscapes of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) to the contested reserves of Ukraine, rare earth elements are increasingly emerging as a driving force behind global tensions. These valuable resources—such as neodymium, dysprosium, and lithium—are essential for the production of electric vehicles, smartphones, military equipment, and clean energy technologies.
"The world is transitioning toward a digital and green economy, and that shift is impossible without rare earth minerals," said Dr. Anthony Mwakale, a leading geologist.
The DRC, which holds some of the world's largest deposits of cobalt and lithium, continues to face persistent violence, much of it fueled by armed groups and multinational corporations seeking control of these strategic resources.
"The same forces that once fueled the blood diamond trade are now driving the rare mineral market," noted Congolese activist Jean-Claude Mutombo.
Simultaneously, Ukraine—home to one of Europe's most substantial lithium reserves—has become a strategic flashpoint in the geopolitical rivalry between Western nations and Russia.
"Whoever controls these minerals controls the future of green technology," said Maria Kovalenko, an energy policy expert.
Western powers have faced criticism for allegedly leveraging resource exploitation to extend geopolitical influence, all while promoting the ideals of democracy and environmental responsibility.
"They speak of environmental accountability, yet their mineral supply chains depend on exploitation," Dr. Mwakale pointed out.
Experts warn that if this competition intensifies unchecked, it could escalate into a broader global crisis.
"Economic warfare can quickly transform into real war," Dr. Mwakale cautioned. "To prevent future conflicts, nations must invest in ethical mining practices, fair trade agreements, and local mineral processing rather than direct exploitation."
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