In central Ukraine, buried beneath the expansive fields of the Kirovohrad region, lies one of Europe's largest lithium deposits, with a reserve estimated at 500,000 tonnes. This resource, once overlooked by Soviet geologists, has now become a focal point in global mineral interests, particularly in light of the growing demand for lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and mobile phones. Situated approximately 350 kilometers south of Kyiv, this deposit has drawn international attention, particularly from the United States, following controversial claims made by former President Donald Trump.
The history of this deposit dates back to the Soviet era when geologists discovered the lithium seam but deemed it unworthy of exploitation. The site, a sloping field once used to cultivate beetroot and wheat during communist times, now holds potential for a modern mining operation. However, construction can only commence once the ongoing conflict with Russia concludes. The proposed mine entrance is in Liodiane, an abandoned village surrounded by acacia and maple trees.
Geological surveys have confirmed that the ore, primarily petalite, is suitable for battery production. The mining operation is projected to achieve a production capacity of 4,300 tonnes per day. Yet, realizing this potential hinges on substantial foreign investment and adherence to EU environmental standards. The mine's construction would require an estimated $350 million.
Local representative Mykola Hrechukha emphasized the readiness of the local workforce, freed by the recent decommissioning of a uranium mine in nearby Smolino. Hrechukha remains optimistic about the mine's prospects, stating:
"We should be able to extract 4,300 tonnes a day. The potential is terrific." – Hrechukha
Hrechukha dismissed notions of military intervention over the deposit, humorously noting:
"I don't think US soldiers are going to be coming here anytime soon." – Hrechukha
"It's more likely aliens from another planet will turn up." – Hrechukha
Despite these quips, the geopolitical undertones are serious. Denys Alyoshin, the mine's chief strategy officer, disclosed that his company actively seeks foreign investment to initiate production by 2028. He elaborated on the project's complexity:
"People think you put a shovel in the ground and dig up money. We have been working on this project for five or six years. With investment we can begin production in 2028," – Alyoshin
The local sentiment is tense, with emotions running high due to Trump's assertion that the mineral wealth should belong to America. Ukrainian officials and citizens perceive this as an affront to their sovereignty. Ryabchenko, a notable figure in the discourse, condemned Trump's stance:
"What Trump suggests is blackmail. He knows we can’t push the Russians out on our own. We need joint production, not a takeover," – Ryabchenko
Volodymyr Landa expressed national dismay at the prospect of losing control over a vital resource:
"It's as if we lost the war to America. This looks to me like reparations," – Volodymyr Landa
The Ukraine-controlled lithium deposits are not limited to Kirovohrad. Another significant deposit exists in Shevchenkivskyi district, located on the frontline in Eastern Donetsk oblast. These areas represent strategic assets for Ukraine's future economic stability and growth.
Alyoshin reiterated the importance of partnering with international investors rather than ceding control:
"We are tired. Our emotions are understandably strong," – Slyvenko
The potential economic boon from lithium mining could be transformative for Ukraine. Ideally, processing the ore domestically into concentrate would maximize economic benefits and enhance Ukraine's position in the global lithium market.