Donald Trump has announced that the framework for a future deal with Greenland includes rights to rare earth minerals. Greenland is rich in natural resources, with large reserves of oil, natural gas, and 25 of 34 critical raw materials identified by the European Commission. These minerals include graphite, niobium, and titanium, essential for electronics, green energy, and military tech. Senator Ted Cruz called Greenland's strategic value "not just about defence," emphasizing its "vast reserves of rare earth elements." Trump told reporters at the World Economic Forum, "I want Greenland for security - I don't want it for anything else," but access to its resources underpins US interest, especially to counter China's dominance in the rare earth industry. The US has strengthened ties with Greenland by reopening its consulate in Nuuk in 2020 and backing American mining projects, including a $120 million financing plan. Experts like Steven Lamy say Trump's goal is "primarily about access to those resources, and blocking China's access." However, mining in Greenland is difficult due to severe weather, high costs, limited infrastructure, and a small workforce. Only two mines are currently productive. Researchers note that melting ice may ease exploration by exposing new land and offering hydro power potential. Jennifer Spence of Harvard Kennedy School says Trump's push is "much more economically driven," with a national security angle. The Arctic region's warming and Greenland's location also boost its importance for shipping and defense monitoring. Despite these challenges, the US sees Greenland as a key piece in the geopolitical puzzle against rivals like Russia and China.