Trump proposes U.S. control over Ukraine's nuclear plants in bid for ceasefire

Thursday 20 March 2025 - 10:10

By: Zahouani Ilham

Trump proposes U.S. control over Ukraine's nuclear plants in bid for ceasefire

President Donald Trump suggested to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky that the U.S. could take ownership and management of Ukraine's nuclear power plants as part of his ongoing effort to mediate a ceasefire in the war with Russia. Zelensky responded by stating that Ukraine was prepared to temporarily suspend its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure, echoing a recent move by Vladimir Putin, who agreed to halt similar strikes on Ukraine.

During a briefing, Zelensky clarified that the conversation focused solely on the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which is currently under Russian control, and emphasized that he felt no pressure from Trump to make concessions to Russia. However, despite these discussions, a comprehensive ceasefire remains difficult to achieve, with Putin continuing to demand that the West cease all military support for Ukraine before any further talks can proceed.

Trump’s tone shifted after his call with Zelensky, with the White House describing it as "fantastic." In a joint statement, U.S. officials noted that Trump had discussed Ukraine's energy supply and the possibility of American involvement in managing its nuclear plants, emphasizing that U.S. ownership would be the best safeguard for such infrastructure.

Additionally, Trump offered to assist Ukraine in acquiring more air defense equipment and to aid in locating Ukrainian children allegedly abducted by Russia. Trump also claimed that efforts toward a full ceasefire were progressing, with future discussions set to take place in Saudi Arabia, where both Russian and American teams are expected to meet.

Meanwhile, tensions continue to rise as Russia and Ukraine trade accusations of ongoing attacks. Russia claimed that Ukraine launched an attack on an oil depot in the south, aiming to disrupt diplomatic efforts, while Ukraine reported Russian missile strikes that caused casualties and damage to hospitals.

The central obstacle to peace remains Putin’s reluctance to agree to a full ceasefire unless the West halts military aid to Ukraine, a demand that has sparked skepticism in Kyiv and among Western allies, who view it as an indication of the Russian leader’s unwillingness to negotiate in good faith.