Ukraine minerals: From lithium to rare deposits, what is in there that Donald Trump actively wants a pact?

Ukraine’s vast mineral wealth has become a key focus in global geopolitics, with US President Donald Trump reportedly seeking a deal to access these critical resources. But what exactly does Ukraine possess, and why is it so important?

A Geological Goldmine

Beneath Ukraine’s surface lies the Ukrainian Shield, a geological formation over 2.5 billion years old. This ancient and stable continental block has undergone multiple geological processes, resulting in rich mineral deposits.

Ukraine holds 22 of the 34 minerals identified by the European Union as essential for energy security. It is also a top global producer of rutile (15.7% of world output), titanium (5.8%), and manganese (3.1%). It hosts Europe’s largest uranium reserves and rare earth elements like neodymium, essential for wind turbines and missiles.

ALSO READ: Trump vs Zelensky: Why US President is frustrated with Ukraine

Essential for the Green Energy Transition

As the world moves towards clean energy, the demand for these minerals is skyrocketing. Electric vehicles, wind turbines, and solar panels rely heavily on lithium and rare earth elements. Lithium prices have surged from USD 1,500 per ton in the 1990s to over USD 20,000 per ton today, with demand projected to increase 40-fold by 2040.

Ukraine has three major lithium deposits: Shevchenkivske, Polokhivske, and Stankuvatske. The Shevchenkivske deposit alone holds an estimated 13.8 million tonnes of lithium ore, while Polokhivske is considered one of Europe’s richest lithium sites. Additionally, Ukraine ranks as the third-largest producer of rutile, a key titanium mineral, and holds Europe’s largest uranium reserves, which are critical for nuclear energy.

ALSO READ: US pauses all military aid to Ukraine after Trump-Zelenskyy clash

Trump’s Interest in Ukraine’s Minerals

Reports suggest Trump has actively sought a US-Ukraine minerals pact, linking resource access to military aid and post-war reconstruction funds. The proposed deal could see US firms investing in Ukraine’s mining sector, helping to develop unexplored deposits. The agreement also aligns with US efforts to reduce reliance on China, which dominates global supply chains for these materials.