Trump Administration Proposes U.S. Control of Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant; Ukraine Firmly Rejects
In a recent development, the Trump administration has suggested placing Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant under U.S. control, designating it as “neutral territory.” This proposal was reportedly discussed during a phone call between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. However, President Zelenskyy has categorically denied any discussions regarding the transfer of ownership of the plant to the United States.
The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, Europe’s largest, has been under Russian occupation since the early stages of the conflict. President Zelenskyy emphasized that while discussions with President Trump did touch upon the plant’s restoration and potential U.S. investment in its modernization, the issue of ownership was not on the table. He stated, “We will not discuss it. We have 15 nuclear power units in operation today. This all belongs to our state” .
The Ukrainian leader further clarified that any operation of the plant must be under Ukrainian control, asserting that it would be illegal for it to function otherwise. He expressed openness to U.S. assistance in reclaiming the plant from Russian forces and investing in its modernization, but firmly rejected any notion of transferring ownership.
This proposal from the Trump administration has sparked concerns within Ukraine, with critics viewing it as an attempt to exploit the country’s vulnerable position amid ongoing conflict. The situation underscores the complexities of international involvement in Ukraine’s energy infrastructure and the sensitivities surrounding national sovereignty.
As discussions continue, the Ukrainian government remains steadfast in its position that all nuclear facilities within its borders are sovereign assets and any foreign involvement must respect this principle.
