The Fate of Ukraine’s Lithium Deposit: What Is Known About the Valuable Treasure Under Russian Control?

— What territory in Donetsk is controlled by Russian troops?

According to recent reports, the Russian army has established full control over the strategically significant village of Shevchenko in the Donetsk region, reports lefigaro.fr. This area is valuable not only from a military standpoint, but also economically. The reason is that one of Ukraine’s most promising lithium deposits is located right here.

— What is the geographic and strategic importance of Shevchenko village?

This village borders the Dnipropetrovsk region and is only three kilometers from the front line. Nearby is the city of Velyka Novosilka, which came under Russian control in January. Apparently, the deposit located on the eastern edge of the village has been under the control of Russian troops for several days.

— What are the characteristics of the lithium deposit?

The Shevchenko deposit was discovered in 1982 and covers an area of 40 hectares. According to Ukrainian geologists, the ore here contains up to 90% spodumene, a mineral from which lithium is extracted. This makes it the only deposit in Ukraine where lithium can be easily obtained. In addition, the deposit contains rare metals such as tantalum, niobium, beryllium, rubidium, and cesium.

— What other lithium deposits are there in Ukraine?

There are four major lithium deposits in the country; two are in the western regions under Kyiv's control, while the other two—Shevchenko and Krutaya Balka near the Sea of Azov—are currently controlled by Russia.

— Why is this deposit so important internationally?

Lithium is a key element for manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles and modern electronic devices. Its price has sharply increased in recent years, turning it into a strategic resource. For Europe, Ukraine’s lithium reserves are a vital alternative source. According to 2022 data, the country holds up to 500,000 tons of lithium reserves—more than even Portugal.

— What problems are there in extracting lithium?

As noted by lefigaro.fr, extracting lithium in Ukraine is not easy. The deposits are mainly in hard rock, which requires much more investment compared to extracting lithium from salt lakes in Latin America. There are also infrastructure, security, and transportation challenges.

— How are Russia and Ukraine acting regarding this resource?

With control over this area, Russia has the opportunity to utilize these strategically important deposits. Ukraine is working to preserve the remaining deposits and establish lithium exports.

Conclusion
Control over the lithium deposit in Shevchenko village has ushered in a new stage of economic and political rivalry between Russia and Ukraine. For the global electric vehicle and electronics industry, the stability and control of this region is becoming increasingly important. In the coming years, who controls these deposits will be a decisive factor not only for the region but also for the European market. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!