Trump wants Ukraine’s nuclear plants. In Kyiv, ex-minister sees “best of worst options”

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🗞️ Driving the news: President Donald Trump has proposed that the United States assume ownership of Ukraine's nuclear power plants to better protect them amid ongoing conflicts
• The suggestion emerged during a conversation between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on March 19
• Trump believes U.S. ownership would leverage American expertise to safeguard these facilities

🔭 The context: Ukraine operates four nuclear power plants with 15 reactors, including the Zaporizhzhia plant—the largest in Europe—which has been under Russian control since March 2022
• Ukrainian law currently prohibits foreign ownership of critical infrastructure like nuclear plants
• Former Ukrainian Energy Minister Oleksiy Orzhel acknowledges the legal challenges but notes that unprecedented situations may require reconsideration of existing laws

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The security and management of nuclear facilities in conflict zones are crucial to prevent potential environmental disasters
• Transferring control to U.S. entities could enhance operational safety and deter hostile actions
• However, such a move raises concerns about national sovereignty and legal implications under Ukrainian law

⏭️ What's next: Discussions between U.S. and Ukrainian officials are expected to continue, focusing on the feasibility and legality of the proposed transfer
• Any decision will require careful consideration of Ukraine's legal framework and the geopolitical ramifications

💬 One quote: "According to Ukrainian law, this is impossible. However, we understand the situation we are in... What once seemed impossible has become more feasible." — Oleksiy Orzhel, former Ukrainian Energy Minister

📈 One stat: Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, Europe's largest, has been under Russian control since March 2022

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