Ukraine has granted Turkish conglomerate Onur Group five special permits to mine some of the country’s most valuable mineral deposits, including graphite, gold, and kaolin. The mining operations, scheduled to begin in 2026, are focused on high-potential regions such as Dnipropetrovsk, Kirovograd, and Khmelnytsky.
Among the five sites, the graphite deposit in the Khmelnytsky region stands out. The Gorodnyavskoye deposit alone holds nearly 143 million tonnes of ore with a graphite carbon content of 5.14%. Experts estimate the deposit could support extraction for over a century. The European Union has recognized its strategic value, listing it among key critical mineral projects vital for Europe’s industrial supply chains.
However, not all prospects proved economically viable. Onur Group has pulled back from plans to develop a gold site in Dnipropetrovsk after testing revealed lower-than-expected yields of just 1.4 grams per tonne—significantly below the 4.5 grams originally projected.
While four sites remain in early stages due to safety and logistical issues—partly owing to Ukraine’s ongoing conflict—the graphite project is moving forward. Mining at Gorodnyavskoye is expected to begin in 2026.
The deal underscores Turkey’s growing interest in critical mineral supply chains. Rare earths and graphite are essential for high-tech manufacturing, energy storage, and defense. With global supply chain pressures intensifying, this venture positions Turkey as a key player while also highlighting Ukraine’s mineral wealth as a geopolitical asset.
