US President Donald Trump has said Kyiv can win all of Ukraine back in its original form, marking a major shift in his position on the war with Russia.
In a post on his Truth Social platform, he indicated that Ukraine could reclaim the original borders from where this war started with the backing of European nations and NATO, citing pressures on Russia's economy.
His comments followed talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who met Trump after his recent address at the UN General Assembly.
Trump has previously advocated for ending the conflict, warning that such a resolution might require Ukraine to relinquish some territory—an option Zelensky has firmly rejected.
In his latest views, Trump mentioned that Ukraine might even expand its territory, though he did not specify beyond the original borders nor address the situation concerning Crimea, which was annexed by Russia in 2014.
He claimed a deeper understanding of the Ukraine-Russia military and economic landscape had changed his outlook, adding that Putin and Russia are in BIG Economic trouble, and this is the time for Ukraine to act.
On the same day, Trump suggested NATO allies should consider shooting down Russian aircraft intruding into their airspace, a topic spurred by recent Russian incursions.
When questioned if the US would support its NATO allies in the event of such actions, Trump noted it would depend on circumstances while acknowledging NATO's enhanced defense spending commitments.
His post represents a significant evolution in his rhetoric, diverging from earlier assertions that Ukraine’s challenge was insurmountable against a more populous adversary.
Trump's latest comments indicate a potential reassessment of US support for Ukraine, reflecting an unpredictable foreign policy approach that has characterized his presidency.