The United States is increasingly focused on securing independent supply chains for oil and minerals, driven in part by concerns over China's dominance in the mineral sector, particularly copper, according to oil industry expert Daniel Yergin. This push for resource control is influencing U.S. foreign policy decisions in regions such as Venezuela, Greenland, and Iran, Yergin stated in a recent interview.

Yergin, a leading expert in the economics of oil, argues that China's control over minerals essential for electrification, data centers, robotics, cellphones, and defense technology is a key factor motivating the U.S. to expand its influence over global oil and mineral resources. He suggests that the Trump administration's actions in Venezuela and its interest in Greenland, while having unclear specific motives, are connected to this broader strategic goal of achieving supply chain independence from China.

The U.S. dependence on foreign sources for critical minerals has been a growing concern for policymakers. These minerals are vital for various industries, including defense, technology, and renewable energy. The U.S. government has been exploring various strategies to reduce its reliance on foreign suppliers, including investing in domestic mining projects, diversifying supply chains, and strengthening relationships with mineral-rich countries.

The situation in Venezuela, with its vast oil reserves, has been a focal point of U.S. foreign policy. The U.S. has imposed sanctions on the Venezuelan government, aiming to limit its access to oil revenues and promote a democratic transition. These actions have been interpreted by some as an effort to gain greater control over Venezuela's oil resources, although the official U.S. position emphasizes the promotion of democracy and human rights.

Similarly, the U.S. interest in Greenland, which possesses significant mineral deposits, has raised questions about its strategic objectives. While the U.S. has expressed interest in Greenland's natural resources, the Danish government, which governs Greenland, has asserted its sovereignty over the territory and its resources.

The competition for control over Earth's minerals is expected to intensify in the coming years as demand for these resources continues to grow. The U.S. is likely to face challenges in its efforts to secure independent supply chains, given the complex geopolitical landscape and the competing interests of other countries. The future of U.S. foreign policy will likely be shaped by its ongoing efforts to balance its economic interests with its strategic goals in a rapidly changing world.