**Trump Suggests US Ownership of Ukraine’s Power Plants**
US President Donald Trump had a phone call with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on March 19. During the conversation, Trump suggested that American ownership of Ukraine’s power plants could help ensure their security.
According to a White House readout, Trump said that “American ownership of those plants would be the best protection for that infrastructure and support for Ukrainian energy infrastructure.” However, it is unclear what specific power plants or energy infrastructure the US could help run or acquire.
**Russia Targets Ukraine’s Energy Infrastructure**
Russia has been targeting Ukraine’s civilian energy infrastructure since 2022. In recent months, Moscow has intensified aerial campaigns with bombardments by swarms of Shahed drones a nightly occurrence. The attacks have caused material losses amounting to “billions of dollars,” according to Ukraine’s Energy Minister Herman Halushchenko.
**Ukraine Seeks Air Defense Systems**
President Zelensky asked Trump for additional air defense systems to protect Ukrainian civilians, particularly Patriot missile systems. Trump agreed to find what was available, especially in Europe.
**Ceasefire Talks Continue**
The US and Russia are focused on achieving a lasting ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that Washington is now focused on this goal, rather than a potential minerals deal with Ukraine.
**International Support for Ukraine**
The European Union plans to supply Ukraine with at least 2 million shells annually, EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas announced on March 19. The outgoing German government also agreed to release an additional 3 billion euros in military assistance for Ukraine.
**Prisoner Exchange and Other Developments**
Ukraine has brought home 175 Ukrainian soldiers in a one-for-one prisoner exchange with Russia, President Zelensky announced on March 19. Meanwhile, US officials were involved in backchannel talks with President Zelensky’s political rivals.