Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has completely rejected Trump’s idea to take control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, effectively putting an end to hopes of a ceasefire. Does this man even want peace?
At a glance:
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy declared all 15 of Ukraine’s nuclear power units belong to the Ukrainian state
• President Trump suggested U.S. ownership and operation of Ukraine’s nuclear plants during a recent call
• Zelenskyy stated he cannot legally negotiate the ownership of these facilities, especially the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia plant
• Trump’s team argued American ownership would provide better protection for the critical infrastructure
• While rejecting ownership transfers, Zelenskyy expressed openness to U.S. investment after Ukraine regains control of all facilities
Zelensky Stands Firm on Ukrainian Sovereignty
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has taken a definitive stance on Ukraine’s nuclear facilities amid discussions with President Donald Trump. The Ukrainian leader emphasized that all nuclear power plants in the country are state property and will remain under Ukrainian control.
“We will not discuss it. We have 15 nuclear power units in operation today. This all belongs to our state,” Zelenskyy declared when addressing the proposal.
So that means his deal with Trump is officially off…
The conversation between Trump and Zelenskyy marked their first dialogue since previous disagreements. While rejecting outright foreign ownership, Zelenskyy did leave the door open for potential American investment in the future.
Trump’s Controversial Proposal
Trump’s team, including National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, suggested that “American ownership of those plants would be the best protection for that infrastructure.” The proposal comes amid continued Russian attacks on Ukraine’s energy grid and occupation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant.
While Zelenskyy rebuffed discussions of ownership transfer, he indicated willingness to consider American investment once Ukraine regains full control of its territory.
“If they want to take it back from the Russians, if they want to modernize it, invest — this is a different question, this is an open question, we can talk about it,” the Ukrainian President stated.
The Zaporizhzhia plant remains under Russian occupation, further complicating any discussions about its future. Zelenskyy emphasized that “The temporarily occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant belongs to Ukraine, everybody acknowledges it and recognizes it.”
Broader Peace Negotiations Ongoing
The nuclear plant discussion is taking place against the backdrop of potential ceasefire negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. International military officers have reportedly met to discuss a potential peacekeeping force for Ukraine, with a partial ceasefire being negotiated.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has stressed the importance of robust defense capabilities for any lasting peace agreement. He specifically warned about the risk of Russian President Vladimir Putin breaching agreements, highlighting the tense geopolitical situation.
Ukraine has continued military actions despite peace talks, launching a significant drone attack on a Russian airbase that caused explosions and fires. The attack demonstrates Ukraine’s determination to maintain pressure on Russian forces while diplomatic efforts continue.
