Rio Tinto Copper Mine Project Moves Forward Despite Native American Opposition

The Trump administration has approved a controversial land swap for the proposed Resolution Copper mine, jointly developed by Rio Tinto and BHP, which could become one of the world’s largest copper mines. Despite strong opposition from Native American tribes, particularly the San Carlos Apache, the U.S. Forest Service said it will republish a necessary environmental report within 60 days, a key step in finalizing the land transfer.

The mine, located in Arizona, is projected to meet over 25% of U.S. copper demand and is considered vital for energy infrastructure and reducing reliance on foreign imports. Copper is essential for electronics, transportation, and renewable energy systems. The U.S. currently imports nearly half of its copper supply.

However, the project threatens Oak Flat, a sacred site where the San Carlos Apache tribe worships. Native groups and conservationists argue the mine would violate religious freedoms guaranteed under the First Amendment. Apache Stronghold, a nonprofit coalition, petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court last year to block the land swap, but the court has not yet decided on the case. If the court intervenes, the Forest Service indicated it may reconsider the project.

Rio Tinto welcomed the development as a step toward securing a domestic copper supply, noting the company has already invested over $2 billion in the project. BHP, which owns a 45% stake, did not comment.

While Native American leaders criticize the decision as an erasure of Indigenous rights, Superior, Arizona’s Democratic mayor Mila Besich expressed support, calling it a milestone for the local economy.

Rio Tinto has pledged to refine all mined copper within the U.S., reinforcing the project’s alignment with national energy and mineral security goals.