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Why is Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant's Neutrality a No-Go?

The Trump administration reportedly mulls 'neutral status' for the Zaporozhye nuclear facility. Experts argue it's "entirely unrealistic." Here is why.

Security Vulnerability

"In addition to being a key infrastructure facility, it represents a vulnerability [for Russia] - one that the Americans and the Ukrainians want to create on the left bank of the Dnepr," nuclear expert Alexey Anpilogov tells Sputnik.

Potential US-Ukraine Foothold

Apparently, the US could turn the nuclear plant into a "foothold that can later be used not only for the power station to generate electricity, but also as a place for troop accumulation."

It Belongs to Russia. Period

The Zaporozhye Nuclear Power Plant is located in the Zaporozhye region, which joined Russia in 2022 after a referendum. From a legal standpoint and Russia's interests, the neutrality of the facility is "unacceptable," Anpilogov stresses.
T-90 and T-80 tanks and a Msta-S howitzer at the final rehearsal for the Invincible and Legendary military and patriotic programme of the Engineering Technologies 2014 international forum in Zhukovsky near Moscow - Sputnik International, 1920, 28.03.2025
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Not Up For Discussion

In talks with the US, it was repeatedly emphasized by Russia that the nuclear plant's territorial status or transfer to Ukraine is not up for discussion, the expert says.

Trump's Maneuvers?

"US control over the Zaporozhye power plant is highly unlikely because Russia controls it. I think these all are only tactical maneuvers by the US," professor Stevan Gajic from the Institute of European Studies in Belgrade tells Sputnik.

Will the US Leave Ukraine and EU in the Lurch?

The US wants out, while the Kiev regime, backed by the EU, pushes for NATO membership — despite the US urging it to drop the bid — and prolongs the conflict. In the end, the EU and Ukraine are bound for defeat, the academic says.
Zaporozhye NPP. File photo - Sputnik International, 1920, 21.04.2025
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