Story perspectives

Trump Unveils $10 Billion Project to Secure U.S. Minerals

2/18/2026

Summary

Trump Launches Project Vault

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump launched Project Vault, a $10 billion plan to establish a U.S. strategic mineral reserve.
The project uses a public-private partnership to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, especially China.
It is part of the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE) and Pax Silica to build resilient, allied supply chains.
The United States has signed bilateral agreements to boost mineral production and pricing.

Summary

US-Japan Trade Initiatives

The United States and Japan initiate projects under a $550 billion trade agreement, with Japan committing $36 billion.
A $33 billion natural gas power plant in Ohio is expected to generate 9.2 gigawatts.
A $2.1 billion crude oil export terminal in Texas expands energy infrastructure.
The agreement aims to boost energy security and reduce reliance on China for critical minerals, including synthetic diamonds.

History

Historical Context

The Marshall Plan, initiated in 1947, allocated over $13 billion to rebuild Europe, promoting economic cooperation and reducing Soviet dependency. Today, the U.S. Department of Defense's Project Vault, with a $10 billion investment, aims to secure strategic mineral reserves and lessen reliance on foreign supply chains, particularly from China, reflecting ongoing efforts for resource independence in U.S. foreign policy.

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Trump Launches Project Vault

The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump launched Project Vault, a $10 billion plan to establish a U.S. strategic mineral reserve.
The project uses a public-private partnership to reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, especially China.
It is part of the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE) and Pax Silica to build resilient, allied supply chains.
The United States has signed bilateral agreements to boost mineral production and pricing.

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