In a tense exchange of statements, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded to recent remarks made by U.S. officials regarding the potential U.S. control over Ukrainian nuclear power plants, asserting their state ownership amid ongoing conflict with Russia.
Zelensky emphasized that all nuclear facilities belong to Ukraine and that any conversations around U.S. involvement pertain specifically to the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, currently under Russian occupation since March 2022. During a response to a question from a reporter, he stated, “We are talking about just one station, which is currently under temporary occupation.”
Trump's statements came ahead of a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which he mentioned discussing the division of “specific assets” like energy facilities and land. Following the call, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that discussions about nuclear facilities were indeed relevant, indicating the strategic importance of the Zaporizhzhia plant, which is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe, equipped with six reactors.
The U.S. Secretary of Energy, Chris Wright, weighed in on the matter, stating, “We can manage these stations. We can do it without problems,” further indicating the U.S.'s readiness to take control if it would assist in reaching peace. Wright’s comments have drawn attention, as he speculated that managing the nuclear plants might provide better protection for Ukraine’s critical energy infrastructure.
Zelensky provided clarity regarding the challenges posed by the illegitimate Russian hold on the Zaporizhzhia facility. He explained that restoring it would require “appropriate infrastructure, water supply, and technical personnel.” He outlined a timeframe of 2 to 5 years for restoring the facility to operational status. “We discussed the possibility of financing and modernizing... we are ready to discuss this with you,” he noted, addressing what conditions would enable U.S. assistance.
Amid these discussions, it’s worth noting that Ukraine has been transitioning to using nuclear fuel from a U.S. company, Westinghouse. As of 2023, about half of the nation’s 15 active nuclear reactors have switched to American-made fuel. This shift is particularly significant given that Ukrainian nuclear power plants previously produced about half the nation’s energy supply, and after substantial destruction of thermal and hydro infrastructure by Russian forces, the role of nuclear energy has become critical in sustaining the energy system.
While there has been speculation regarding broader U.S. control over all Ukrainian nuclear power stations, Zelensky staunchly refuted these claims. “I saw in the press messages that it concerns all nuclear power plants. We are not going to discuss that. We have 15 blocks that belong to our state,” he stated firmly, highlighting their connection to the European energy grid. The discussion touched the national significance of energy security and the implications beyond just operational control of the plants.
The nuclear energy landscape in Ukraine, which includes three operational stations—Rivne, Khmelnytskyi, and South Ukraine—remains a state-controlled sector. Volodymyr Zelensky’s government policies have resisted privatization efforts largely due to the significant implications for stability and energy strategy in wartime.
As tensions unfold on the geopolitical stage, the conversation surrounding U.S. involvement in Ukraine’s nuclear future reveals not only the complexities in international relations but the urgent need for a coherent policy strategy that prioritizes democracy, sovereignty, and security in energy management.
Both Zelensky’s statement and the U.S. administration’s comments touch upon a fraught and critical balance of power and responsibility in a time of war, as the global community watches closely the implications for peace and security in Europe.
