For much of the past year, Trump has openly questioned Ukraine’s chances of survival, at times hinting that Kyiv might need to negotiate many parts of their land. But his latest post on Truth Social struck a very different chord hinting that “Ukraine could get back the original borders from where this war started… maybe even go further.” He did not specify whether this included Crimea, annexed by Russia in 2014, but the pledge suggested that Washington now sees Moscow as weakened and vulnerable.
Trump explained the change after a closed-door session with Zelensky. He pressed on “Putin and Russia are in BIG Economic trouble, and this is the time for Ukraine to act.” Calling Russia a “paper tiger,” Trump argued that U.S. and NATO backing could decisively tilt the war.
Zelensky Welcomes the ‘Big Shift’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky swiftly welcomed Trump’s statements, describing them as a “positive signal” that Washington’s assistance would remain until the war ended. Speaking to reporters, he hinted at future US guarantees once peace is achieved, possibly incorporating weapons, drones, and missile defenses. Zelensky said Fox News that Trump’s new viewpoint reflected irritation with Putin’s “lies” as well as knowledge of Russia’s economic woes.
For Kyiv, this shift could not come at a better time. With nearly two years of grinding war, mounting casualties, and wavering European unity, Trump’s declaration provides renewed hope and a stronger political shield against Moscow.
Moscow Pushes Back
The Kremlin dismissed Trump’s remarks as naïve. Dmitry Peskov, spokesman for President Vladimir Putin, suggested Trump had fallen under Zelensky’s “influence.” He ridiculed the “paper tiger” jab, insisting Russia was “a bear, not a paper anything,” and denied reports of economic collapse despite acknowledging “tensions” caused by sanctions.
However, Moscow’s defiant tone hides its concern. Analysts say Putin has been compelled to transfer resources to support his economy and preserve battlefield momentum. Trump’s portrayal of Russia as faltering strengthens Western arguments that time is in Ukraine’s favor.
NATO and Europe Tighten the Pressure
Trump’s change comes as NATO countries firm up their position against Russian provocations. Following several airspace violations by Russian drones and jets, Poland and Estonia requested discussions with the alliance. NATO has warned that it will use “all necessary tools” to defend itself, while leaders like Poland’s president have sworn not to be “scared of Russian drones.”
At the same time, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reiterated that the EU will phase out Russian fossil fuels by 2027, strengthening Moscow’s economic ties.
Unpredictability as Strategy
Trump’s foreign strategy has always relied on unpredictability. His previous experimentation with land-for-peace plans alarmed friends, but his current statement might revive stalled diplomacy while bolstering confidence in Kyiv. Ending his Truth Social post, Trump stated that the United States would continue to arm NATO, which might feed weaponry to Ukraine.
It is unclear whether this new posture reflects a long-term commitment or a tactical pivot. However, Kyiv has reason to assume that Washington’s support is not only consistent, but also stronger than ever.
