In June 2025, Ukraine took the first step toward implementing its agreement with the United States on the joint development of strategic minerals. The Cabinet of Ministers approved preparations for a tender on the Dobra lithium deposit — one of the largest in the country.
The decision aims to prove to the American side that the agreement is functioning, despite the lack of formal security guarantees. The new approach focuses on economic development and reducing dependence on China.
What We Know About the Dobra Deposit
The deposit is located in Kirovohrad Oblast near Dobrovelychkivka. Total reserves are estimated at 80–105 million tons of ore containing 1.1–1.4% lithium oxide (Li₂O), with potential industrial reserves of about 1.2 million tons.
In addition to Dobra, the nearby Stankuvate and Nadiya quarries hold nearly 50% of Ukraine’s lithium reserves. Starting their development could turn Ukraine into a key supplier for the battery production sector.
Terms of the Agreement and Investors
The agreement states that 50% of profits from extraction will go to the “USA–Ukraine” special international fund. Half of this money will be reinvested into Ukraine’s economy, while the rest will be returned to investors as reimbursement.
Potential investors include the TechMet consortium (partially backed by the U.S. government) and businessman Ronald Lauder, who is associated with Donald Trump.
TechMet representatives claim that the deal’s structure ensures transparency, with disputes to be resolved through international arbitration.
Obstacles and Challenges
Despite its clear potential, the project faces several challenges: outdated geological data, damaged infrastructure, risks related to the ongoing war, and investor concerns about stability.
The geological information is largely based on Soviet-era studies and needs to be updated. Modern surveys and feasibility studies are required to launch full-scale mining.
Security remains critical: most of the deposits are located near combat zones. Without protection guarantees, no investor will commit significant funding.
Launching the Dobra project is the first tangible result of the U.S.–Ukraine deal. As First Deputy Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko noted, “This is a strategic initiative that creates mutual benefit and a new level of cooperation with the U.S.”
The move also shows Ukraine’s willingness to act, even without guarantees, in order to prove its reliability and long-term partnership potential.
Geopolitical Context and Prospects
The agreement is seen as part of a global push to reduce dependence on Chinese rare earth minerals. The U.S. views Ukraine as a strategic source of critical materials.
This deal gives American policymakers a concrete economic interest in supporting Ukraine, which could influence continued aid through 2025–2026.
The Dobra project may pave the way for other ventures — in titanium, graphite, and cobalt. However, such initiatives will require years of planning and billions of dollars in investment.
The agreement between Ukraine and the United States on lithium deposit development is not just an economic move, but a key signal of Ukraine’s transition to a strategic partnership model. The Dobra project will test the country’s ability to attract investors, ensure transparency, and make effective use of its natural resources.
