Russia, Viewing Central Asia as its Backyard, Alarmed by US-EU Foray into Rare Earths

(CNA, Tokyo, May 20, Comprehensive Foreign Report) Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin stated in an interview with Izvestia published today that Russia is concerned by the active encroachment of the United States and the European Union into Central Asia's rare earth and critical minerals sector. According to a Reuters report, the Group of Seven (G7), including the US and EU, has been exploring alternative markets and support measures to reduce dependence on China. The China-dominated rare earth supply chain is crucial for tech industries such as electric vehicles, renewable energy, and defense systems. Russia considers the resource-rich Central Asian countries—including Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan—as its sphere of influence, a region where China is also increasing its focus. 'We are concerned by Washington's vigorous promotion of agreements on critical minerals and rare earth metals,' Galuzin said in the interview. 'This is not just economic competition, but an attempt to exclude Russia and build a Western-controlled infrastructure near our borders.' During a meeting with leaders of the five Central Asian nations last November, US President Trump listed critical minerals as a core priority, emphasizing the US commitment to expanding and securing its supply chains through new global agreements. Trump stated at the time, 'A key element of our policy is critical minerals. In recent weeks, my administration has strengthened America's economic security by expanding our critical mineral supply chains through agreements with allies and friends around the world.' (Compiled by: Qu Xiang-ping)