From a legal standpoint, these agreements are primarily intergovernmental collaborations designed to secure access to critical raw materials more sustainably and transparently. The European Commission, for instance, has already adopted the Critical Raw Materials Act (Regulation (EU) 2024/733), which aims to achieve at least 10% domestic extraction and 15% recycling of critical raw materials by 2030. Although the EU is not directly involved in these agreements, it could put indirect pressure on European industrial policies in the mining and metallurgical sectors. 

Furthermore, questions arise regarding the compatibility of such agreements with the multilateral trade rules under the WTO, especially concerning potential export restrictions, sourcing preferences, or state support measures. Environmental and human rights considerations also demand attention: the extraction and refining of rare earths often have devastating impacts on local ecosystems and Indigenous communities. Implementing binding standards and certification systems, similar to the Kimberley Process for diamonds, will be crucial to avoid a resource race that sidelines sustainability. 

These recent developments highlight the increasing strategic importance of rare earths and the global efforts to secure a more diverse and sustainable supply chain. The U.S., Ukraine, Greenland, and Australia are all playing pivotal roles in shaping the future of this critical industry. As these agreements unfold, the challenge will be to create a framework that promotes equitable access to resources, sustainable practices, and respects fundamental human rights while reducing dependence on any one nation. For the European Union, the key challenge will be to build a cohesive industrial policy that ensures technological sovereignty while fostering international cooperation on critical raw materials.