Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has disclosed that he and former U.S. President Donald Trump held discussions regarding the potential for the United States to take control of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant. The facility, which is Europe’s largest nuclear site, has been under Russian occupation since the early stages of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
During an official visit to Finland, Zelensky stated that the talks were focused on the strategic importance of the plant, highlighting its significance for both Ukraine and European energy stability. The restoration of the plant, according to Zelensky, could take more than two years.
The proposal from Trump emerged amid efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. While discussions about the plant’s management proceeded, Zelensky noted that he did not experience any external pressure from the U.S. in the negotiations around this issue.
Furthermore, Zelensky expressed skepticism over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s willingness to agree to a ceasefire, given ongoing military operations in Ukraine’s Kursk region. The Kremlin has previously rejected U.S.-backed ceasefire initiatives, instead suggesting a halt to attacks on energy infrastructure.
Zelensky also confirmed receipt of additional F-16 fighter jets, although he did not disclose specifics about their origin. This development comes amid ongoing military tensions in the region, as Ukraine continues to bolster its defensive capabilities.
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