Russia's seizure of lithium deposits in Donetsk poses a threat to all of Europe.

Lithium is the primary raw material for the future of "green" energy in Europe. It is essential for batteries in electric vehicles, renewable energy storage systems, and digital devices.

Ukraine possesses some of the largest untapped lithium reserves in the world, but the Russian invasion threatens these critically important resources, reports united24media.com.

It is expected that by 2030, the demand for lithium in Europe will surge dramatically. Ukraine is a key potential supplier, with its untapped lithium reserves estimated to range from 500,000 to over 760,000 tons. Other estimates even suggest that Ukraine may hold more than 33 million tons of lithium, valued at nearly $40 billion.

"The potential of Ukraine for lithium extraction is undeniable," stated Ksenia Oryntchak, executive director of the National Association of Mining Industry of Ukraine (NAMU).

"According to authoritative studies, our country ranks among the top three leaders in lithium reserves alongside the Czech Republic and Serbia. Additionally, Ukraine's geographical proximity to the EU is a significant strategic advantage," she added.

Lithium deposits in Ukraine are concentrated in the region of the Ukrainian Shield and include significant sites such as the Shevchenkivske lithium ore deposit, located near the city of Shevchenko in the Donetsk region. Currently, the city is a hotspot of fierce battles. As of January 15, 2025, Russian troops control most of the city, with Ukraine holding only a small portion of it.

The Shevchenkivske deposit covers 39.84 hectares and is one of the country's most valuable assets. Discovered in 1982, this deposit contains 90% of the country’s total lithium reserves.

The threat to the Shevchenkivske deposit undermines Ukraine's access to this vital economic resource and halts extraction. It also deters foreign investment, hindering Ukraine's integration into the essential supply chains of Europe.

The EU's heavy reliance on lithium imports—primarily from China, Chile, and Australia—makes Ukraine's resources strategically important.

Ukraine's reserves rank fifth in Europe, and the country could play a key role in strengthening the European supply chain and reducing Europe's dependence on distant suppliers.

By seizing Ukraine's lithium-rich territories, Russia gains leverage in the global lithium market, the publication notes.

"Perhaps this is not a motivation for invasion, but there is a reason why Ukraine is so important to Russia. And that is its mineral base," remarked Rod Shunover, founder of the American group Environmental Future.

If Ukraine regains control over these territories, its lithium reserves could help propel Europe towards energy independence, the expert emphasized.