Ukraine is set to reinstate its state geological exploration program in 2026, collaborating with international partners. The operations may commence even amidst ongoing military actions. This was stated by the Deputy Minister of Economy, Environment, and Agriculture of Ukraine, Yegor Perelygin.
Perelygin emphasized that the last geological exploration funded by the state budget occurred over a decade ago. The program is anticipated to return next year.
«We are reinstating geological exploration under a budget program. We are engaging partners from the USA, Germany, Canada, and the UK, who are very interested in this initiative», — said the Deputy Minister.
To avoid delays, the work will begin with known mineral occurrences dating back to the Soviet era. This approach will enable operations without the need for advanced technological scanning at the initial stage.
Perelygin clarified that using technologies like airborne lidar radar is currently impossible, but Ukraine has «hundreds of locations with already identified mineral occurrences».
«We can start drilling with equipment and machines. Once the war ends, we will have access to lidar scanning, GIS, and other technologies. However, we must not waste time; we need to begin. The key is to take the first step», — emphasized the Deputy Minister.