WSJ: U.S. Proposes Turning Area Around Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant Into Neutral Zone

The U.S. has proposed a striking solution to help de-escalate the ongoing Russia–Ukraine conflict: designating the area surrounding the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant — the largest in Europe — as a neutral zone. This idea is part of Washington’s broader diplomatic effort to promote peace in the region, according to The Wall Street Journal (WSJ).

1. U.S. Eyes Neutral Zone Near Zaporizhzhia – A Peace Strategy?

According to WSJ, Washington believes that establishing a demilitarized or neutral area around the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant could help reduce military tension and open the door for diplomatic negotiations. The proposal also hints at the possibility of U.S. involvement in managing or monitoring the area.

👉 However, the report does not specify which territories would be included, how the U.S. would enforce control, or who would operate the plant under this arrangement if the plan moves forward.

2. Zaporizhzhia – The Nuclear Heart of Europe

The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, located in the city of Energodar, has six reactors with a combined capacity of 6 GW, making it the largest nuclear power facility in Europe.

Since late February 2022, the plant has been under Russian control. The site has repeatedly come under attack from Ukrainian forces, including shelling, drone strikes, and missile launches — posing significant threats to nuclear safety.

Currently, all six reactors are in a “cold shutdown” state, meaning they are not generating electricity. Despite this, a full team of staff remains on site to maintain operations under strict nuclear and radiation safety protocols, with oversight from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

3. Russia Responds: No Transfer of Control Over Zaporizhzhia

During a June 2024 meeting with the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Vladimir Putin affirmed that Moscow is open to peaceful solutions to the Ukraine conflict. However, Russia has laid out several key conditions:

The international community must recognize Russian sovereignty over the following territories:

Crimea, Sevastopol

Self-declared republics of Lugansk (LPR) and Donetsk (DPR)

Kherson and Zaporizhzhia regions

Russia has also firmly rejected any idea of transferring control of the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant to Ukraine or any other foreign entity, under any circumstances.

4. Zaporizhzhia – The Geopolitical Pressure Point?

With its strategic location and nuclear significance, the Zaporizhzhia plant remains a critical flashpoint in the Russia–Ukraine conflict. Any decisions regarding this area could greatly influence:

International diplomacy

European energy security

Military escalation risks

5. Conclusion: Neutral Zone – Peace Catalyst or Power Play?

While the proposal is still vague, the idea of creating a neutral zone around the Zaporizhzhia plant could be a potential step toward peace. Still, given Russia’s firm stance, turning this concept into reality remains uncertain.

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