Ukraine has significant geological potential in the field of rare earth elements (REE) and critical materials — from alkaline earths to heavy lanthanides. A real transformational effect from this potential is only possible with a well-designed strategy, investments in extraction and processing, development of value-added chains, and clear state incentives.
Below is a comprehensive analysis of reserves, risks, global trends, opportunities, and practical steps for investors and policymakers.
Why This Matters Now
• Rare earth elements are key raw materials for electric motors, powerful magnets, sensors, batteries, military and space technologies, as well as green energy (wind power, electric vehicles).
• Global demand for REE and critical materials is growing faster than the ability to rapidly increase supply, creating premiums for resources and vertically integrated assets.
• Diversification of suppliers is a strategic priority for many states and corporations in the context of excessive dependence on individual countries.
Geological Reserves: What Is Known and What Is in Question
Ukraine possesses some of the largest reserves in Europe of titanium — about 7% of the world’s total, as well as graphite — up to 20% of the global total (NATO ENSEC COE data).
Lithium resources, in particular the Shevchenko deposit (Donetsk region), are estimated at ≈ 1.2 million tons of lithium oxide (Li₂O) with ore grade ≈ 1.3–1.5% — one of the largest in Eastern Europe (ResearchGate, Wikipedia, IEA).
According to UNECE, Ukraine holds up to 5% of the world’s reserves of critical materials.
Doubts About Economic Feasibility
At present, there are no proven economically viable REE deposits: most Soviet-era estimates are outdated, and the modern assessment process lacks transparency (IEEE Spectrum, S&P Global).
Many promising deposits — Yastrubetske, Novopoltavske, Azovske, Mazurivske — are located in active combat zones or occupied territories, which significantly complicates their development (European Parliament, CIRSD, GIS Reports).
Global Trends: Demand for Rare Earth Elements
• The global REE market will grow from ≈ 197 thousand tons in 2025 to 260 thousand tons in 2030 (CAGR ≈ 5.8%) — OpenPR.
• The World Bank forecasts a 500% increase in REE demand by 2050 (ZPP).
• The EU will still depend on China for more than 75% of REE processing by 2030 (ibanet.org).
• In 2023, the EU Critical Raw Materials Act came into force — a strategy for diversifying sources and expanding internal capacities (European Parliament, Epthinktank).
Barriers and Challenges for Ukraine
Current Agreements and Political Context
In April 2025, a framework agreement was signed with the United States to create a joint Resource Management Fund, which provides access to REE, titanium, lithium, and uranium, while keeping ownership and profits from new developments with Ukraine for the first 10 years (AP News, Wikipedia).
Some analysts warn of the risk of a “mineral trap” — a combination of unprofitable deposits, wartime risks, and dependence on foreign financing could lead to strategic vulnerability.
Investment Opportunities
• Exploration and raw material sources — 3D seismics, drilling, geochemical analysis.
• Initial beneficiation — creation of local facilities for concentrates.
• Local processing — production of magnets (NdFeB) and other high value-added products.
• Recycling — processing of used magnets and batteries.
• Vertical integration — partnerships with manufacturers of electric vehicles, wind turbines, defense technologies.
Policy and Institutional Steps
Time Horizon
• Short term (1–3 years) — exploration, pilot projects, initial recycling.
• Mid term (3–6 years) — launch of beneficiation plants, first contracts.
• Long term (6–10 years) — establishment of a full cycle: from extraction to finished components.
Conclusion
Ukraine has the potential to become a significant player in the global rare earth elements market, but this requires: strategy, investment, modern technologies, strict environmental standards, and international partnerships. Investors should start with concentrates and recycling, laying the groundwork for large-scale local processing.
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