Trump administration wants 10% stake in American lithium miner that sells to GM

The Trump administration is seeking a 10% stake in American lithium miner Lithium Americas as a condition for the company's loan repayment period. Lithium Americas had requested a minor change to the loan repayment period, which prompted the administration's request for equity. The lithium miner supplies materials to General Motors (GM), a major automotive manufacturer. The administration's move is seen as an attempt to gain influence over a critical domestic source of lithium, a key component in electric vehicle batteries. The request is part of the government's broader efforts to secure American control over the supply of strategic minerals, particularly those used in emerging technologies like electric vehicles. The dispute highlights the growing importance of lithium and other rare earth elements in the global clean energy transition. The negotiations between Lithium Americas and the Trump administration are ongoing, with both parties seeking to reach an agreement that balances the company's needs and the government's strategic interests.