Russia and US Explore Crypto Mining at Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Plant

Moscow and Washington are reportedly engaged in back-channel discussions about joint management of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear facility. The U.S. has expressed interest in utilizing the plant's excess electricity for industrial-scale cryptocurrency mining operations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed the talks during a meeting with business representatives, stating that informal negotiations focus on harnessing the site's massive energy output without compromising its operational integrity amid regional conflict. The proposal WOULD allocate a portion of the plant's capacity to power digital asset production while continuing to supply Ukraine.

The initiative marks a rare potential collaboration between geopolitical adversaries in the cryptocurrency sector. Nuclear-powered mining operations could significantly reduce energy costs for proof-of-work networks, though the plan's feasibility remains uncertain given the plant's contested status.