China’s Mineral Grip Threatens EU Rearmament Plans

The European Union’s push to rebuild its military faces a new obstacle: China controls most of the world’s supply of critical minerals. These raw materials, such as rare earths and gallium, are essential for making advanced weapons, electronics, and defense systems. Beijing has already restricted exports of some minerals, citing national security. The EU now struggles to find alternative sources. Without enough gallium for radar systems or rare earths for precision missiles, rearmament timelines could slip. The bloc is scrambling to secure new supply deals with countries like Australia and Canada. But building new mines and refineries takes years. Analysts warn that Europe may have to accept slower military growth or pay much higher prices for materials. The situation highlights a growing vulnerability: a military buildup can be stalled not by an enemy army, but by a shortage of rocks.