Russia Declares Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Non-Transferable

Russia's Foreign Ministry has asserted that the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP) will remain under Russian control, declaring that any transfer to Ukraine or joint operation with foreign nations is impossible due to security concerns. The ministry emphasized that the plant, under Russian occupation since March 2022, is considered a Russian facility following a controversial annexation. Ukrainian President Volodyr Zelensky has expressed interest in U.S. assistance in managing and potentially restoring the plant, highlighting American expertise in energy infrastructure. However, Russia has dismissed such discussions, insisting that the plant's safety cannot be ensured under joint operations. The situation reflects ongoing geopolitical tensions and the challenges surrounding energy security in the region. The ZNPP is crucial as one of Europe's largest nuclear facilities, currently monitored by the U.N.'s nuclear watchdog.