1 / 9Ukraine is home to a vast and strategically important mineral wealth, largely due to the Ukrainian Shield, a 2.5-billion-year-old geological formation rich in essential raw materials. The country has deposits containing 22 of the 34 critical minerals identified by the European Union, making it one of the world’s most resource-rich nations, according to a report on The Conversation. Here’s a look at the key minerals in Ukraine: (Image: Shutterstock)
2 / 9Lithium | The Shevchenkivske deposit in the Donetsk region, along with the Polokhivske and Stankuvatske deposits in the Kirovograd region, are significant sources of lithium, which is essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. The Shevchenkivske deposit alone contains an estimated 13.8 million tonnes of lithium ores. With demand for lithium expected to increase 40-fold by 2040 and prices soaring in recent years, these reserves hold immense market potential. (Image: Reuters)
3 / 9Graphite | Graphite is widely used in batteries, electronics, lubricants, and fuel cells. It is a crucial material for electric vehicles (EVs) and the renewable energy sector, playing a key role in energy storage and efficiency. Its significance continues to grow as the demand for sustainable energy solutions and advanced battery technologies increases. (Image: Reuters)
4 / 9Titanium | Ukraine is the 6th-largest producer of titanium, contributing 5.8% of the global supply. Known for its strength, light weight, and corrosion resistance, titanium is widely used in aerospace, medical implants, and military applications. Its strategic importance continues to grow as demand for high-performance materials increases across various industries. (Image: Shutterstock)
5 / 9Manganese | Ukraine holds the world’s largest proven manganese reserves, estimated at 2.4 billion tonnes in the Nikopol Basin. It ranks as the 7th-largest producer of manganese ore, contributing 3.1% to global supply. Manganese is primarily used in steelmaking and battery production, making it a critical material for industrial and energy applications. (Image: Shutterstock)
6 / 9Iron Ore | Ukraine is the 6th-largest producer of iron ore, contributing 3.2% of the global supply. Iron ore is primarily used in steel production, making it a fundamental resource for construction, infrastructure, and manufacturing industries worldwide. (Image: Shutterstock)
7 / 9Rutile | Ukraine is the 3rd-largest producer of rutile, a titanium dioxide mineral, contributing 15.7% of the global supply. Rutile is primarily used in paints, coatings, and pigments due to its high refractive index and strong UV resistance, making it an essential material in various industrial and commercial applications. (Image: Shutterstock)
8 / 9Rare Earth Elements (REEs) | Ukraine possesses significant reserves of rare earth elements, including notable elements like neodymium and dysprosium. These materials are essential for key industries, particularly in the production of wind turbines, electric vehicles (EVs), and advanced electronics. Given that China currently dominates global REE production, Ukraine’s reserves present a valuable alternative supply source, enhancing its geopolitical and economic significance in the global market. (Image: Shutterstock)
9 / 9Uranium | Ukraine has the largest uranium reserves in Europe, making it a key player in the nuclear energy sector and military applications. (Image: Shutterstock)
