Global Powers Eye Arctic for Critical Mineral Extraction Amid Environmental Concerns
The Arctic region is becoming a focal point for global powers seeking to extract critical minerals necessary for various industries. Countries such as Russia, Canada, the United States, Denmark, and Norway are asserting their interests in the Arctic, driven by the need to counter China's dominance in the critical minerals market. Russia is advancing its Arctic 2035 plan, which includes infrastructure development and strategic importance for national security. Canada is also increasing its investment in the Arctic to enhance its mineral mining capacity, partly in response to strained relations with the United States. The United States, under President Trump, has shown interest in Greenland's resources, with discussions about purchasing a stake in a major rare earths project. However, environmentalists express concerns about the potential impact of mining activities on the Arctic's fragile ecosystem.