俄打出最不该打的“稀土牌”，要给美国开后门？中国必须提高警惕

Core Viewpoint - Russia's President Putin expressed willingness to collaborate with the U.S. on rare earth mineral development, particularly in the Donbas region, highlighting the strategic importance of rare earths in modern industries, including defense and technology [1][3]. Group 1: Rare Earth Market Dynamics - China holds a dominant position in the global rare earth market, with over 80% of processing capacity and significant reserves [3]. - The U.S. faces a supply shortage of rare earths due to sanctions on Chinese high-tech industries and export controls imposed by China [3][4]. - Russia claims to have substantial rare earth reserves, with 2850 million tons of rare earth resources, potentially increasing with the inclusion of occupied Ukrainian territories [3][4]. Group 2: Russia's Strategic Considerations - Russia aims to improve relations with the U.S. through rare earth cooperation, especially after the deterioration of U.S.-Russia relations post-Ukraine conflict [4]. - The country faces technical and financial challenges in rare earth development, with most reserves located in remote and harsh climates, necessitating foreign collaboration for technological and financial support [4][6]. Group 3: Challenges in U.S.-Russia Cooperation - The high cost and difficulty of mining rare earths in Russia pose significant barriers to collaboration [6]. - The U.S. also lacks sufficient refining technology, making it reliant on China for processing, even if it successfully mines rare earths [6]. - Trust issues between the U.S. and Russia complicate the establishment of a stable cooperative relationship in the rare earth sector [6]. Group 4: China's Response Strategies - China should enhance its technological barriers by investing in rare earth processing and refining technologies to maintain its competitive edge [7]. - Strategic reserves of rare earths should be optimized to ensure domestic industry needs are met amid international market fluctuations [7]. - China is encouraged to diversify its international partnerships in the rare earth sector to solidify its position in the global supply chain [7][9]. - Strict export controls should be maintained to safeguard national interests and prevent resources from reaching adversarial markets [7][9].