• Trump proposes U.S. ownership or control of Ukraine's nuclear power plants during ceasefire discussions.
  • The suggestion sparks debate over Ukraine's sovereignty and energy security amid ongoing conflict.
  • Economic forecasts for Ukraine are revised downward as energy infrastructure remains a critical vulnerability.

A Controversial Proposal

Former President Donald Trump suggested the United States could take ownership or control of Ukraine's nuclear power plants during a March 19 call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, according to people familiar with the discussion. The idea emerged as part of broader negotiations aimed at brokering a limited ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia—a key campaign promise of Trump's 2024 bid.

Zelensky later clarified that only the Zaporizhzhia plant, Europe's largest nuclear facility currently under Russian occupation, was discussed in detail. "These are complex strategic assets," said a senior Ukrainian energy official who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of talks. "Any arrangement would require guarantees beyond political cycles."

Economic Fallout and Reconstruction Costs

The World Bank estimates Ukraine needs $68 billion to rebuild its energy sector—nearly 13% of the country's total $524 billion reconstruction tab. The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development recently cut Ukraine's 2025 growth forecast to 3.5%, citing persistent energy infrastructure damage from Russian strikes.

"You can't separate energy security from macroeconomic stability," noted EBRD chief economist Beata Javorcik during a Wednesday briefing. Grid attacks have shaved 1-2 percentage points off Ukraine's GDP growth annually since 2022.

Geopolitical Tightrope

Technical teams from the U.S., Ukraine and Russia are expected to meet in Saudi Arabia next month to discuss implementing a partial ceasefire, though the nuclear proposal complicates matters. EU officials privately express concern it could undermine Ukraine's membership aspirations. "This isn't just about megawatts," said a Brussels-based diplomat. "It's about whose hands are on the switches during accession negotiations."