The European Commission has strongly criticized former U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order allowing deep-sea mining in international waters. The order bypassed the International Seabed Authority (ISA) and ongoing global talks on ocean mining laws. Experts and officials say the move risks legal confusion, environmental damage, and a global race for rare minerals like lithium and cobalt.
EU Condemns U.S. Move to Bypass Global Ocean Rules
In a sharp statement, the European Commission said it “deeply regrets” the U.S. decision to go ahead with deep-sea mining without working through international agreements. A spokesperson pointed to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which lays out rules for using the world’s oceans.
Although the U.S. never officially signed UNCLOS, the EU said the treaty reflects global standards that have developed over decades. These norms, they argue, apply to all countries, even to non-members like the United States.
The EU warned that breaking away from global talks could damage years of work on sustainable development, marine safety, and peaceful use of the seabed.
Deep-Sea Mining and the Race for Rare Minerals
Trump’s order was aimed at speeding up access to vital underwater resources such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. These materials are needed for making electric vehicle batteries, renewable energy systems, and high-tech electronics.
By promoting deep-sea mining, Trump hoped to reduce America’s dependence on minerals from countries like China. However, critics say the move risks starting a mining rush that could harm the fragile deep-ocean ecosystem.
Experts Sound Alarm Over Legal and Environmental Risks
Many scientists and legal experts spoke out against the U.S. decision. Douglas McCauley, a professor of ocean science at UC Santa Barbara, called the U.S. action “pirate mining.” He warned that without strong global rules, mining could spiral out of control and trigger disputes over ocean territory.
“This sets a terrible example,” said McCauley. “If every country starts mining where they please, we lose any hope of protecting ocean life or keeping the peace.”
Duncan Currie, legal adviser to the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, also raised concerns. He said Trump’s order ignores 40 years of United Nations legal work and undermines the ISA’s role in managing ocean resources.
Global Responses: China, Russia, and the ISA Push Back
The U.S. decision did not go unnoticed. China’s Foreign Ministry quickly criticized the executive order. Spokesperson Guo Jiakun urged all countries to follow ISA procedures and respect UNCLOS. He said mining in international waters must be done under accepted international laws.
Russia also questioned the U.S. action, pointing out that Washington still has not ratified UNCLOS. Both China and Russia have long pushed for stronger ISA authority, and Trump’s move gave them more ground to argue against the U.S. role in ocean governance.
Biden Administration Follows Similar Path, But Quietly
Although Trump’s order sparked the current wave of criticism, some experts point out that the Biden administration has continued deep-sea activity—just more quietly. During Biden’s term, the U.S. completed a major seabed mapping project, covering nearly one million square kilometers.
The U.S. based this mapping effort on UNCLOS guidelines, even though it is not a formal member. This has raised further questions about the U.S. position—wanting to use the treaty’s benefits without following its rules.
What Is the International Seabed Authority (ISA)?
The ISA, based in Jamaica, is a UN agency created by UNCLOS to manage seabed resources. It is in charge of setting up fair rules for mining and protecting ocean environments. So far, no country has been allowed to begin commercial mining in international waters. Only test operations have taken place.
The ISA is still working on a full set of rules, known as the “Mining Code,” which would regulate how and when countries or companies can mine the deep ocean. Trump’s order bypassed this process, raising concerns that other countries may follow suit.
Environmental Impact of Deep-Sea Mining
Scientists say deep-sea mining could cause lasting damage. The ocean floor is home to many unknown species and fragile habitats. Mining could stir up clouds of toxic sediment, harm marine life, and release carbon stored in deep-sea sediments.
“We barely understand the deep sea,” said marine biologist Dr. Helen Scales. “Opening it to mining without strong safeguards is reckless.”
Environmental groups across Europe and the Pacific Islands have also called for a pause or full ban on deep-sea mining until more research is done.
The Bigger Picture: Ocean Resources and Global Power
The struggle over seabed mining is not just about minerals. It’s also about power. Countries like China have already secured ISA permits for exploration. Without joining UNCLOS, the U.S. has no vote at the ISA and must rely on other ways to shape global policy.
This puts Washington at a disadvantage, say analysts. The U.S. wants access to key resources but has limited influence on the rules that control them.
A Divided Ocean Future
Trump’s deep-sea mining order has triggered a new wave of concern over global ocean law, environmental safety, and the balance of power in seabed resource control. While the U.S. seeks mineral independence, its methods risk breaking long-standing rules and straining global ties.
As the ISA continues to draft mining laws, the world watches to see whether cooperation or competition will guide the future of the deep sea.