President Dodik Invites Trump and U.S. Investors to Tap Into Srpska’s $100 Billion Lithium Reserves

Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska – In a bold move to attract foreign investment, Milorad Dodik, the President of the Republic of Srpska (an entity within Bosnia and Herzegovina), has extended an invitation to former U.S. President Donald Trump and American businesses to invest in the region’s vast lithium reserves. The deposits, estimated to be worth $100 billion, could position Srpska as a key player in the global lithium market, essential for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and renewable energy technologies.

A Strategic Economic Opportunity

Lithium, often referred to as “white gold,” is a critical component in the production of batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, and energy storage systems. With the global push toward green energy and reduced carbon emissions, demand for lithium is skyrocketing. The Republic of Srpska’s untapped reserves present a lucrative opportunity for international investors, particularly the U.S., which is seeking to diversify its supply chains away from dominant producers like China.

President Dodik emphasized that Srpska is open to partnerships with American firms, offering favorable investment conditions. “We have significant lithium deposits that remain underutilized. We invite President Trump and U.S. companies to explore this opportunity, which could bring mutual economic benefits,” Dodik stated.

Geopolitical Implications

The invitation comes amid growing geopolitical competition over critical minerals. The U.S. has been actively seeking to secure lithium supplies to bolster its EV and tech industries, reducing reliance on China, which currently controls much of the global lithium processing capacity. If American investors engage with Srpska, it could strengthen economic ties between the two regions while providing a strategic foothold in Europe’s emerging lithium sector.

However, any major investment would likely face scrutiny due to Bosnia and Herzegovina’s complex political structure and ongoing tensions between its entities—the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Srpska. Dodik, a pro-Russian and pro-Serbian leader, has frequently clashed with Western governments over his policies, which could influence investor confidence.

Next Steps

While former President Trump has not yet publicly responded to the offer, the proposal could gain traction among U.S. mining and energy firms looking to expand their lithium portfolios. If negotiations progress, the Republic of Srpska could see a surge in foreign direct investment, job creation, and technological advancements in mineral extraction.

For now, Dodik’s invitation marks a significant step in positioning Srpska as a potential hub for critical mineral resources. Whether American investors take the bait remains to be seen, but the $100 billion lithium reserves could be a game-changer for the region’s economy.