Former U.S. President Donald Trump declared on Tuesday that Ukraine, bolstered by European Union and NATO support, is positioned to "fight and win all of Ukraine back in its original form" during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the UN General Assembly. The remarks signal a notable shift from Trump’s previous calls for Kyiv to negotiate concessions with Russia.
Zelenskyy Welcomes 'Positive Signal'
Zelenskyy described Trump’s comments as a "very positive signal" of sustained U.S. support, according to Ukrainian state media. The leaders reportedly discussed strategies to pressure Russia’s energy infrastructure and financial systems, with Kyiv seeking expanded sanctions against Moscow.
Kremlin Rejects Trump’s Assessment
Russian officials swiftly countered Trump’s optimism, with Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating Moscow "could not agree with everything" presented by Zelenskyy. Peskov emphasized Russia’s preference for parallel discussions on Ukraine and U.S.-Russia relations, while asserting that Western sanctions have not destabilized Russia’s economy.
Germany Backs Pressure Strategy
A German government spokesperson aligned Trump’s stance with Berlin’s goal of maintaining "Western pressure on the aggressor, Russia," signaling potential collaboration on tightening sanctions. The development comes as Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov prepares to address the UN General Assembly this week.
