President Trump’s recent declaration about Ukraine seems like a departure from his previous stance, but experts say it may be nothing more than a tactical move. The US president has appeared to shift his position, suggesting that Ukraine can win back the territory occupied by Russian troops with the help of Europe and NATO. However, former aides say Trump’s foreign policy views are often driven by emotions rather than strategic analysis.
Trump’s advisors seem taken aback by his sudden conclusion, which contradicts previous statements from Secretary of State Marco Rubio. White House officials have declined to comment on the president’s new strategy, but a senior official stated that Trump is willing to impose tariffs on Russia if Europe stops buying energy from Moscow.
Experts believe that nothing much has changed in terms of US policy towards Ukraine. “The reversal is one of analysis and not policy,” said Richard Fontaine, CEO of the Center for New American Security. Trump’s statement seems to minimize America’s role in the war, and there is no new call for a cease-fire or peace agreement.
US allies at the United Nations seemed unimpressed with Trump’s suggestion that he would stand on the sidelines during negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. Senator Mitch McConnell criticized his own administration for undermining support for Ukraine, while Laura Cooper, a former Pentagon official, emphasized the importance of US aid in deterring Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed enthusiasm about Trump’s statement, but it remains unclear whether the president’s rhetoric will translate into action. The Kremlin dismissed Trump’s assertion that Ukraine can win back territory as “mistaken,” and Russian officials seem to view the US with skepticism.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding Trump’s stance on Ukraine, one thing is clear: the country needs continued support from the international community to survive its ongoing war with Russia.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/09/24/us/politics/trump-ukraine.html