The US has been reported to propose deploying cryptocurrency mining in the disputed regions of Russia and Ukraine, becoming a bargaining chip in Russia-US negotiations.

On December 26, according to Russian media outlet Businessman Report, Russian President Putin recently stated that the United States has expressed interest in conducting cryptocurrency mining operations at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant (ZNPP), and that such arrangements may be part of the Russia-U.S. negotiations. The Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, located in southeastern Ukraine, is the largest nuclear power plant in Europe. Since 2022, it has been under Russian control and has long been a core issue in the Russia-Ukraine conflict and peace negotiations. Disputes among all parties are evident regarding the ownership, operation rights, and electricity distribution of the plant. Reports indicate that Russia and the United States are discussing a joint management plan excluding Ukraine; meanwhile, BBC revealed that the U.S. proposed a plan for joint operation by the U.S., Russia, and Ukraine, with each holding equal shares. At the same time, Reuters cited sources saying that Ukraine proposed a 50:50 joint venture with the U.S. to operate the nuclear power plant, with the U.S. free to allocate its share of electricity as it sees fit, and Ukraine speculating that some of it might flow to Russia. Control of the nuclear power plant not only affects the power supply in southern Ukraine and regional grid stability but also involves significant security and geopolitical risks. With no consensus among all parties, the feasibility of conducting cryptocurrency mining at ZNPP remains highly uncertain. Regarding the background, as the Russia-Ukraine conflict enters its fourth year, U.S. President Trump is increasing diplomatic efforts to push for a ceasefire and peace agreement, focusing on territory, security guarantees, and economic arrangements. Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that the U.S. and Ukraine are close to an peace plan containing 20 points; Putin also expressed willingness to make concessions but remains firm on the Donbas issue.