In a phone exchange with Volodymyr Zelensky on March 19, 2025, Donald Trump proposed that the United States take control of Ukraine's nuclear and power plants. According to the American president, this initiative would provide 'the best possible protection' for these strategic infrastructures, as the country faces targeted attacks from Russia.
This proposal comes at a time when Moscow and Kiev are discussing a partial ceasefire, focused on preserving energy infrastructures. Vladimir Putin is said to have expressed his willingness to spare Ukrainian sites in exchange for a halt to Ukrainian strikes on Russian facilities. A technical agreement on this issue is to be discussed in Saudi Arabia in the coming days.
Zelensky, while showing openness to these discussions, emphasized the need for increased military support, notably by requesting additional Patriot defense systems. Trump indicated he was ready to consider these requests, while highlighting his vision of a 'strategic and economic' solution to secure Ukraine.
This statement immediately sparked mixed reactions. Some analysts see it as an attempt by the United States to extend its influence over the Ukrainian energy sector, while others believe this proposal is a guarantee of stability against Russian threats.
It remains to be seen whether this initiative can lead to real protection of the infrastructures or if it will exacerbate diplomatic tensions.