How much lithium does Ukraine have?

Ukrainian researchers have speculated that the country’s eastern region holds close to 500,000 tons of lithium oxide, a source of lithium, which is critical to the production of the batteries that power electric vehicles. That preliminary assessment, if it holds, would make Ukraine’s lithium reserves one of the largest in the world.

Is European lithium the world's largest lithium supplier?

In November, European Lithium, an Australian firm, said it was in the process of securing rights to two promising lithium deposits in the Donetsk region, in eastern Ukraine, and Kirovograd, in the center of the country. The company said at the time it aimed to become Europe’s largest lithium supplier.

Which countries produce the most lithium & cobalt?

China, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Australia account for three-fourths of the global output of lithium, cobalt and rare earths. Earlier this week, 17 military experts wrote a letter to Lloyd Austin, the United States Secretary of Defense, underscoring the need for the United States to shore up its access to minerals.

Who controls the world's lithium supply?

And there are growing concerns that the world’s supply of lithium, as well as other minerals critical to the clean energy transition, are controlled by a handful of countries. China, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Australia account for three-fourths of the global output of lithium, cobalt and rare earths.

Are Chinese and Australian investors lining up for lithium?

Chinese and Australian investors had been lining up to explore for lithium, a metal that is critical to batteries and the world’s transition to clean energy. An ore sample containing lithium at a facility in the Czech Republic in 2017. David W. Cerny/Reuters

Why did Biden approve supplying Ukraine with anti-personnel mines?

Anti-Personnel Mines: The Biden administration approved supplying Ukraine with American anti-personnel mines to bolster defenses against Russian attacks as Ukrainian front lines in the country’s east have buckled.