Ukraine’s Polokhivske Lithium Deposit Among Largest in Europe, Holding Over 760,000 Tons

Recent geological surveys show that the Polokhivske deposit in Ukraine's Kirovohrad region holds more than 760,000 tons of lithium carbonate equivalent (760 LCE kt), making it one of the largest lithium reserves in Europe.

According to Ksenia Orynchak, Executive Director of the National Association of Extractive Industries of Ukraine (NAEIM), Ukraine has significant potential for lithium extraction.

“Ukraine’s potential for lithium extraction is undeniable. Based on reputable studies, our country is in the top three for lithium reserves, alongside the Czech Republic and Serbia. Additionally, Ukraine’s geographic proximity to the EU offers a significant strategic advantage,” Orynchak told Interfax-Ukraine.

Orynchak noted that there are a total of four surveyed lithium deposits in Ukraine, with the Polokhivske deposit being the only one where the owner holds an extraction license.

The others include the Dobra site (Kirovohrad region), the Shevchenkivske deposit (Donetsk region), and the Kruta Balka site (Zaporizhzhia region). Two of these are located in temporarily occupied territories.

“It is a fact that Ukraine has significant lithium extraction potential. According to reputable studies, we rank among the top three countries for lithium reserves, along with the Czech Republic and Serbia. Ukraine’s geopolitical location is also highly advantageous for European Union countries,” said Orynchak.

It was previously reported that Russian forces occupying Bakhmut in Ukraine’s Donetsk region have converted the city’s mines into logistical hubs, storing military supplies and establishing field hospitals, according to Ukrainian defense officials.