Want to create an interactive transcript for this episode?
Podcast: Fault Lines
Episode: Episode 520: Critical Minerals, Critical Allies: The U.S.-Japan Minerals Deal Explained
Description: Today, Morgan, Martha, Sarah, and Jess discuss the latest developments in the U.S.–Japan relationship following President Trump’s meeting with Japan’s new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The two leaders announced a wide-ranging set of agreements, including deals on F-35 fighter jets, missile systems, and a Memorandum of Understanding to finance new shipbuilding and critical mineral projects. With China controlling about 90 percent of the world’s rare earth supply, the new MOU commits both nations to support mining ventures within six months—underscoring their shared goal of securing and diversifying critical mineral supply chains.What does...