A U.S. delegation has visited central Ukraine to assess the potential for launching new mining projects focused on titanium, zirconium, and hafnium, under the strategic minerals agreement signed between Kyiv and Washington on April 30.
Representatives of the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC), accompanied by Ukraine’s Minister of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture, Oleksiy Sobolyev, inspected the Birzulivske processing plant and the Likarivske deposit in the Kirovohrad region – both operated by the Ukrainian company Velta.
Velta, which has been active in the titanium industry for more than 14 years, announced plans to expand into the production of zircon and hafnium – key metals for the nuclear industry – as well as building materials such as clay and sand.
“Our ability to provide an alternative source of critical raw materials outside of China is vital for American partners, while our additional products will be crucial for Ukraine’s reconstruction,” said Velta’s CEO, Andriy Brodsky.
Titanium is one of 34 critical raw materials listed by the European Union, with wide applications in defense, aviation, and high-tech industries. The global market value of titanium is projected to exceed $53 billion by 2034, driven by rising demand and supply shortages following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Before the war, Russia supplied about one-third of U.S. titanium needs. With sanctions now limiting Moscow’s exports, Washington is seeking to diversify its supply chains by leveraging Ukraine’s vast mineral resources.
The strategic minerals agreement grants the United States privileged access to Ukrainian projects tied to natural resources, supporting infrastructure, and defense programs, in an effort to reduce dependence on China and Russia while strengthening strategic resilience.
