Why Greenland’s critical minerals won’t make it rich

In early 2026, Greenland found itself in the middle of a geopolitical battle. Strategically positioned near emerging shipping routes, the island has drawn interest from the U.S., Russia, China and Europe. But Greenland’s untapped wealth sits under the ground. With significant deposits of rare earth elements and other critical minerals, the mining industry could boost the territory’s slowing economy. But can it make its people rich?