In a recent development aimed at bolstering Ukraine’s energy security amid ongoing conflicts, former U.S. President Donald Trump proposed that the United States assume ownership and management of Ukraine’s electrical supply and nuclear power plants. This suggestion was made during a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as part of broader efforts to mediate an end to the Russia-Ukraine war.
The proposal underscores the belief that American ownership could serve as a protective measure for Ukraine’s critical infrastructure, potentially deterring further attacks due to the implicit risk of escalating tensions with the United States. National security officials supporting the initiative stated that U.S. ownership of these facilities would provide the best protection for Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Discussions during the call also addressed the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe’s largest, which is currently under Russian control. The leaders deliberated on strategies to manage and safeguard such facilities amidst the ongoing conflict.
In addition to the proposal on energy infrastructure, Trump and Zelenskyy discussed a limited ceasefire targeting energy and civilian infrastructure. Zelenskyy expressed Ukraine’s readiness to implement this ceasefire, viewing it as a step toward broader peace negotiations. Trump also pledged additional assistance, including more air defense systems for Ukraine, to bolster its defensive capabilities.
This initiative marks a shift from previous discussions centered on mineral rights deals between the U.S. and Ukraine, signaling a focus on long-term peace and stability in the region.
While the proposal reflects a strategic move to safeguard Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, its implementation would require careful consideration of international laws, Ukraine’s sovereignty, and the geopolitical implications of such a transfer of ownership.
