President Donald Trump asserted Tuesday that Ukraine, with European Union backing, is capable of reclaiming its entire territory in the conflict against Russia. “After analyzing the Ukraine/Russia military and economic situation, and observing the economic strain on Russia, I believe Ukraine can fight and WIN all of its territory back in its original form,” Trump stated. He emphasized that with time, patience, and European financial support, restoring Ukraine’s pre-war borders is achievable.
Trump criticized Russia’s prolonged conflict, claiming it has “been fighting aimlessly for three and a half years” and risking its reputation as a “paper tiger.” He argued that economic hardships in Russia, including gasoline shortages and diverted resources to the war effort, would weaken Moscow. Trump also acknowledged Ukraine’s resilience, stating, “Ukraine has Great Spirit and only getting better,” while condemning Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to prolong the conflict, which has fueled unnecessary suffering.
The remarks mark a shift from Trump’s earlier neutral stance on the war, despite his growing criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin. During a meeting with Zelenskyy at the U.N. General Assembly, Trump reiterated support for NATO allies to intercept Russian aircraft violating their airspace but stopped short of guaranteeing U.S. intervention. He acknowledged the conflict’s protracted nature, saying, “It looks like it’s not going to end for a long time.”
Trump also criticized European nations for continuing to purchase Russian oil despite calls to pressure Moscow. He expressed respect for Ukraine’s efforts but lamented that his relationship with Putin had yielded no resolution. Meanwhile, NATO has accused Russia of violating airspace in Poland and Estonia, with Norway reporting three such incidents in 2025.
