US boosts critical mineral investments amid defense supply risks and Iran tensions

The United States is advancing a $3 billion investment package to expand domestic mining, energy storage, and critical mineral processing to bolster its defense industry and national security. The initiative follows an undisclosed strategic simulation from last summer involving 80 officials and industry executives, which identified serious vulnerabilities in the supply chain for high-purity aluminum during potential global conflicts.

Meanwhile, security risks remain elevated as Iranian officials reportedly examine potential retaliatory strikes against American military installations across Southeastern Europe. Facilities in countries such as Bulgaria, which recently authorized refueling access for US aircraft, could be targeted if regional hostilities intensify. Washington aims to mitigate foreign supply dependencies while safeguarding allied military assets deployed abroad.

Sources: Investor.bg, Mediapool, Nova TV.