USCM Reports 2025 Milestones and Outlines 2026 Exploration Priorities at McDermitt East Lithium Project Amid Accelerating Thacker Pass Developments

Core Insights - US Critical Metals Corp. (USCM) has achieved significant corporate milestones in 2025 and is outlining its operational focus for 2026, particularly at the McDermitt East Lithium Project in Nevada [1][3]. Group 1: 2025 Key Milestones - USCM made material progress in aligning with its strategic objectives, including securing a clear path to acquire a 100% interest in McDermitt East and completing the acquisition of the Clayton Ridge Lithium Project [3][6]. - The company reported strong uranium-vanadium grades at the Long Canyon Uranium and Vanadium Project, indicating multiple mineralizing styles and a significant prospective trend [6]. - USCM closed a private placement financing of $510,000 to support corporate development and its U.S. critical minerals portfolio [6]. Group 2: 2026 Exploration Focus - The exploration strategy for 2026 at McDermitt East includes geological mapping and surface sampling to refine drill targets, building on previous exploration results that showed lithium values up to 2,129 ppm [8][9]. - The initial field program aims to enhance geological understanding and guide efficient drill target definition, with plans for a maiden drill program in 2026 [9]. Group 3: Strategic Positioning - USCM's strategy emphasizes U.S.-based critical mineral assets to support supply chain resilience, particularly as North American lithium projects advance [2]. - The McDermitt East project is strategically located near the Thacker Pass lithium project, which is expected to commence production in 2027, highlighting the growing importance of U.S. lithium supply [5][10]. - The company believes it is well-positioned to capitalize on a more favorable lithium market, supported by U.S. government initiatives for domestic lithium supply [10].