At its Brussels event, Euromines emphasized that Europe's defense future hinges on securing critical raw materials and deepening international partnerships to reduce reliance on geopolitical adversaries.
The U.S. and Ukraine have reached an initial deal on minerals investment, but major challenges remain before full implementation.
Putin urges Russia to speed up lithium mining, aiming for self-sufficiency by 2030. The country holds substantial reserves but previously relied on imports, which were disrupted by sanctions.
Western reliance on Russian nuclear fuel raises calls for incentives and sanctions to boost alternative investments.
Continued business with Rosatom jeopardizes both energy security and global efforts to counter Russia's aggression.