中方发火，几乎断供欧盟稀土，冯德莱恩认怂，拒绝美对华制裁要求

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the geopolitical tensions surrounding the U.S. push for secondary sanctions against China due to its oil trade with Russia, which the U.S. claims supports the Russian military in the Ukraine conflict. This has led to a strategic response from China, particularly in the rare earth sector, which is critical for various industries in Europe and the U.S. [1][5][12] Group 1: U.S. Sanctions and China's Response - The U.S. has been attempting to weaken Russia's war potential through economic means, including sanctions and pressuring countries like China and India to reduce oil purchases from Russia [9]. - The U.S. proposed to the EU to impose a 100% tariff on Chinese goods, claiming that China indirectly supports Russia's military actions through its oil trade [12]. - China has responded by implementing export controls on rare earth elements, which are essential for high-tech industries, thereby exerting strategic pressure on Europe [14][19]. Group 2: European Union's Position - European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the EU would independently decide its tariff policies and would not join the U.S. in sanctions against China, indicating a shift in the EU's stance [7][21]. - The EU's internal divisions regarding sanctions are influenced by the varying needs of member states, with industrial powers like Germany and France being particularly concerned about rare earth supply shortages [23][25]. - The EU is exploring partnerships with China to establish rare earth processing joint ventures, contrasting with the U.S. strategy of complete decoupling [27]. Group 3: Implications for Rare Earth Supply Chain - China controls over 90% of the global refined rare earth production, making it a critical player in the supply chain for various industries, including automotive and defense [14][19]. - The potential disruption of rare earth supplies could severely impact European industries, particularly in electric vehicle production and military applications [16][19]. - The EU's goal to process 40% of critical raw materials domestically by 2030 is currently far from being met, with only 20% processed locally [16].