Trump's $12B Rare Earth Plan Targets China as Experts Warn US Is 'One Crisis Away'

Project Vault initiative aims to build strategic reserve to shield EVs, defense, and tech from Chinese leverage

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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President Trump's Project Vault initiative, backed by a $10B EXIM loan and $1.67B in private funds, aims to build a strategic reserve of rare earths and critical minerals to shield EVs, defense, and tech from Chinese leverage. Industry experts highlight the U.S. vulnerability to supply disruptions, warning the country is 'one crisis away' from shortages.

Why it matters

The story reinforces the urgency of domestic and alternative sourcing amid China's ongoing dominance, driving procurement and investment in non-Chinese supply chains.

The details

The $12B Project Vault initiative will enable rapid stockpiling of critical minerals and rare earths via the $10B EXIM loan and $2B in private funds. This executive financing authority aims to bolster U.S. rare earth security and bypass some appropriations hurdles.

  • Project Vault was announced in February 2026.

The players

Project Vault

A $12B initiative by the Trump administration to build a strategic reserve of rare earths and critical minerals, backed by a $10B EXIM loan and $2B in private funds.

EXIM

The Export-Import Bank of the United States, which authorized up to $10B in direct loans for Project Vault, the largest loan in its history.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.