Trump: Ukraine can regain all territories and defeat Russia
New York, 23 September 2025 - During the UN General Assembly, US President Donald Trump said that Ukraine could regain all the territories it had lost in its confrontation with Russia if it had the support of NATO and the European Union. This happened after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which represents a significant shift in Trump's rhetoric.
Main points of the statements
Return of territories: Trump said that Ukraine can regain the territories lost after the Russian invasion «in its original form» with the support of the EU and NATO.
Russia - a «paper tiger»: Trump used this phrase to describe Russia's weaknesses in the long run.
Calls for allies: America expects more from the European powers and NATO, such as tougher sanctions, cutting off Russian energy, and more military and logistical assistance to Ukraine.
Supporting dialogue on peace: The possibility of a peace summit involving the leaders of the United States, Ukraine and Russia has been suggested, but Moscow has so far rejected such proposals.
Meeting results and implications
| What was said/agreed upon | Implications / potential changes |
|---|---|
| Trump's statement that Ukraine can return all the territories. | Moral support, a signal to allies, and increased expectations from partners for more active assistance. |
| Zelenskyy demanded tougher sanctions against Russia, especially in the energy sector, and security guarantees. | It could speed up the EU's decision on energy independence and sanctions, and force NATO or other international bodies to reconsider the format of security guarantees. |
| Discussion of a possible summit and international pressure on Russia. | If Russia agrees, a new diplomatic route may emerge; if not, the issue will continue through sanctions and international isolation. |
| The change in Trump's rhetoric compared to his earlier thoughts about «certain territorial concessions». | This could change the US position in international negotiations; increase Ukraine's confidence in US support; and force Russia to rethink its strategies. |
Doubts and criticism
Uncertainty: Trump has not announced any new specific commitments from the US - no new aid packages, no clear dates.
Political risks: the change in the US positioning could cause disputes with those countries that are still cautious about the full restoration of Ukraine's territories without a significant diplomatic compromise.
Russia's reaction: So far, Trump's statements have been criticised in Russia and used by propagandists as a pretext to claim a threat, but practical steps have not yet been confirmed.
What's next
Ukraine is expected to submit concrete proposals on security guarantees and integration of air defence systems with its allies.
The EU and NATO are likely to discuss new sanctions packages, in particular on Russian energy exports.
There may be initiatives for an international conference or summit for a peaceful settlement - although Russia has not yet shown signs of readiness.
In domestic Ukrainian politics, such rhetoric may strengthen the position of the Zelenskyy government, but also increase public expectations for concrete results.
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