Peter Zeihan critiques the Trump administration's Project Vault, arguing that purchasing rare earth tailings is a superficial step that fails to address the core issue of China controlling 70% of critical material processing. He contends that the US must prioritize building domestic refining capabilities rather than merely stockpiling raw inputs. Zeihan also urges improved diplomatic relations with key mining nations like Canada, Australia, and Brazil to secure supply chains and reduce reliance on Chinese infrastructure.