Has Trump Changed His Stance on Ukraine's Fight for Territory?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Trump believes Ukraine can reclaim its original territories.
- Russia's military efforts are seen as ineffective.
- Support from the European Union is crucial for Ukraine's success.
- Trump distances the US from direct conflict involvement.
- Sanctions on Russia may be imposed if Europe joins the effort.
Washington, Sep 24 (NationPress) In a significant change of perspective regarding the Russia-Ukraine situation, US President Donald Trump stated that Ukraine "is in a position to fight and WIN" to reclaim all its territories "in its original form." In a post on Truth Social on Tuesday, he emphasized that Kyiv can regain its lost lands "with the support of the European Union."
Trump elaborated, "After understanding the military and economic dynamics between Ukraine and Russia and witnessing the economic challenges it poses for Russia, I believe Ukraine, backed by the European Union, can successfully fight and WIN back all of Ukraine. With patience and financial assistance from Europe, particularly NATO, the original borders from where this conflict began are certainly achievable. Why not?"
He criticized Russia's approach, claiming that they are fighting "aimlessly" and that their actions portray them as a "paper tiger."
“Russia has been engaged in a conflict for three and a half years that should have been swiftly resolved by a true military power. This situation does not reflect well on Russia and indeed portrays them as "a paper tiger," Trump stated.
He commended Ukraine’s "great spirit" in their battle against Russia, suggesting, "Ukraine could reclaim their country in its original form and possibly achieve even more!"
Nonetheless, Trump seemed to distance the US from direct involvement in the conflict, concluding with a message of goodwill. "Putin and Russia are facing significant economic difficulties, and now is the crucial moment for Ukraine to act. Regardless, I wish both nations well. We will continue to supply weapons to NATO for them to manage as they see fit. Good luck to all!" he remarked.
Earlier that day, during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at the UN General Assembly in New York, Trump supported the idea of shooting down Russian aircraft if they intrude into NATO airspace, responding affirmatively, "Yes, I do."
He expressed admiration for Ukraine's efforts, stating the US has "great respect for the commendable fight Ukraine is putting up."
In his address to the UN General Assembly, Trump criticized European and NATO nations for "funding the war against themselves" by continuing to buy Russian energy.
“Inexcusably, even NATO countries haven't significantly reduced their Russian energy purchases. They're inadvertently financing their own opposition. Who would have thought of that?”
He reiterated that the US is prepared to impose additional sanctions on Russia only if Europe joins the effort.
“Should Russia refuse to negotiate a resolution, the United States is ready to impose strong tariffs, potentially halting the violence. However, for these tariffs to be effective, European nations present here must also adopt identical measures," he noted.
Trump's growing frustration regarding the lack of progress in resolving this conflict comes a month after his discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.