Washington, Dec 15 (NationPress) Progress is being made between Russia and Ukraine regarding the future of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, as reported by the White House on Monday. This development is part of extensive discussions in Berlin aimed at restoring operations at this crucial facility, linked to broader peace negotiations.

A high-ranking official from the U.S. administration indicated that negotiators from Ukraine, Russia, and Europe have dedicated significant effort to this matter, highlighting the plant's importance for energy security and post-war recovery.

“There are two different aspects to consider,” the official noted, emphasizing both the operational management of the plant and the distribution of electricity. While some differences persist, the negotiations are converging toward a foundational agreement.

“Ultimately, they both wish for it to be repaired and functioning effectively, providing energy,” the official added. One of the proposals currently on the table involves an equal division of power output, with negotiators approaching a consensus on a “50-50 power split,” which is viewed as a favorable outcome.

The Zaporizhzhia plant, regarded as Europe’s largest nuclear facility, has been a source of international concern since hostilities intensified near its vicinity at the start of the conflict. The official remarked that reestablishing stable operations could serve as an initial confidence-building measure between the involved parties.

Energy infrastructure was a key focus during the Berlin discussions, which also explored methods to stabilize other essential facilities and mitigate risks that could hinder future peace. The official mentioned that energy was approached both as a technical challenge and a political imperative.

The conversations extended beyond the plant itself, with working groups investigating broader territorial and infrastructure issues, including economic arrangements designed to alleviate tensions in disputed regions.

Among the concepts considered was the establishment of an economic free zone, although the official emphasized that these proposals remain preliminary and non-binding.

“We allocated substantial time to define the implications and operations of that concept,” the official noted, adding that once the concepts are clarified, “it will ultimately be up to the parties to resolve the final details.”

According to the official, in-person meetings in Berlin accelerated progress, enabling negotiators to pinpoint common ground more swiftly than in previous remote discussions.

Officials from Europe were actively involved throughout the negotiations, expressing concerns regarding Ukraine’s energy recovery and the broader ramifications for Europe’s energy security.

Before the onset of the conflict in February 2022, the Zaporizhzhia plant was responsible for a significant portion of Ukraine’s electricity supply.