A US general warns: the link between terrorism and critical minerals in Africa threatens Spanish industry

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Geopolitics and Supply Chain

A high-ranking US military official has warned of the growing convergence between terrorist activity and the control of critical minerals in Africa. This geopolitical instability directly threatens strategic supply chains for European industry, and particularly for Spanish industry.

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A high-ranking military officer of Estados UnidosThe four-star general has issued a serious warning about the dangerous crossroads at which the African continent finds itself: the growing convergence between the terrorist activity and the control of critical mineral depositsThis alert, issued on May 22, 2026, underscores a direct threat to international security and, by extension, to the global supply chains on which the high-tech industry depends. Unión Europea y España.

The warning, reported by media outlets such as Business Insider AfricaThe report focuses on how insurgent and terrorist groups are using control of mines and logistical routes as a source of funding, exacerbating instability in already fragile regions. For Spanish companies, this situation represents a top-level strategic risk which could impact the availability and cost of essential raw materials.

Washington's warning: Instability and strategic resources

The concern of Washington It is not merely about security, but profoundly economic. África is a key supplier of minerals such as cobalt, coltan, lithium or rare earth elementsfundamental for the energy transition and digitalization. The possibility of terrorist groups controlling these resources not only gives them economic and military power, but also the ability to to disrupt or manipulate trade flows to Europa y América del Norte.

According to the analysis implicit in the US high command's warning, these groups' strategy involves seizing mining areas, imposing "revolutionary taxes" on mining operations, or directly managing extraction and smuggling. This phenomenon makes the supply chain a vulnerable target and a geopolitical weapon.

Direct impact on Spanish industry and exports

For the Spanish economy, which is highly dependent on the import of these raw materials, the consequences are direct. Sectors such as the automotive (manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles), renewable energies (wind turbines and solar panels) and the electronics industry They face a potential disruption in their supply chain. Instability in the Sahel and other regions of África Central This could be translated as:

• Increased costs: Scarcity or increased logistical risk will directly impact the price of minerals.
• Stockouts: Disruption of supply routes can cause production line stoppages.
• Investment uncertainty: Spanish companies with interests or investment projects in Africa should reassess their country risk analyses.

The following table summarizes the main risks associated with this convergence of terrorism and natural resources for the Spanish supply chain.

Geopolitical Risk Identified	Critical Minerals Affected	Spanish Industrial Sectors at Risk
Terrorist control in the Sahel	Uranium, Gold, Phosphates	Energy, Technological Components, Fertilizers
Instability in the República Democrática del Congo and the Great Lakes region	Cobalt, Coltan, Copper	Automotive (Batteries), Consumer Electronics, Aerospace
Attacks on logistics routes and key ports in África Occidental	All exported minerals	International Logistics, Maritime Transport, Foreign Trade

Key points and frequently asked questions about the risk in the supply of minerals from Africa

How does this alert affect Spanish importing companies?

Spanish companies must activate protocols for risk management in your supply chainThis implies diversifying suppliers beyond the African continent, constantly monitoring the geopolitical situation in the countries of origin, and potentially purchasing insurance to cover disruptions caused by conflict. Auditing traceability is crucial to prevent the indirect financing of these groups.

What role does the European Union play in the face of this threat?

La Unión Europea is accelerating the implementation of its Critical Raw Materials ActThis strategy aims to reduce dependence on single suppliers and boost extraction and recycling within its borders. Furthermore, it anticipates strengthening diplomatic and security alliances with stable African governments to protect trade routes and strategic investments.

Are there viable alternatives to African minerals for Spanish industry?

Yes, although they are not immediate nor do they cover the full spectrum of needs. Alternatives include strengthening trade relations with resource-rich countries such as Australia, Canadá or various nations of América LatinaIn the medium and long term, investment in R&D to develop substitute materials and promote the circular economy Recycling electronic components will be fundamental to guaranteeing the strategic autonomy of Spanish industry.