President Donald Trump has suggested that the United States take control of Ukraine’s nuclear power plants as part of an effort to secure critical infrastructure in the war-torn country.
The proposal, made during a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, aims to protect these facilities from the ongoing conflict and ensure their stability in the face of potential threats.
The discussion reportedly focused on the long-term safety of Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, particularly the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), which is currently under Russian occupation. Trump’s proposal raises questions about the role of international partners in managing Ukraine’s energy sector and how such a move would be implemented.
President Zelensky acknowledged the proposal but reaffirmed Ukraine’s commitment to maintaining state ownership of its nuclear facilities. He emphasized that while Ukraine welcomes foreign investment and technical assistance, its sovereignty over key infrastructure must remain intact.
The Ukrainian government has expressed interest in collaborating with Western allies to modernize its energy sector and enhance security measures around its power plants. However, any move that suggests foreign control over national assets is likely to face scrutiny both within Ukraine and among its international partners.
Experts believe the proposal could be part of a broader strategy to pressure Russia into relinquishing control over occupied areas. By positioning the U.S. as a potential overseer of Ukraine’s nuclear facilities, Trump may be signaling a stronger Western commitment to securing critical energy assets.
At the same time, the feasibility of such a plan remains uncertain. The Zaporizhzhia plant, for instance, has faced ongoing security concerns, including depleted cooling water supplies and deteriorating equipment due to the conflict.
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Any effort to restore full operational control would require significant coordination between Ukraine, the U.S., and other allies.
The international community has responded with mixed reactions to Trump’s proposal. Some European leaders view it as a potential stabilizing measure, while others have raised concerns about sovereignty and the precedent it may set for foreign involvement in national infrastructure.
As discussions continue, the focus will be on finding a balance between securing Ukraine’s nuclear facilities and respecting its independence. The next steps could involve increased international cooperation, investment in security upgrades, and diplomatic negotiations to address concerns about control and oversight.