Trump Backs Ukraine’s Full Territorial Recovery, Pressures NATO on Russian Oil at UNGA

U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that Ukraine is capable of regaining all the territory it lost since Russia’s 2022 invasion, marking one of his strongest statements of support for Kyiv to date. Writing on Truth Social after his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in New York, Trump argued that Russia is facing “BIG Economic trouble” and urged Europe and NATO to provide greater financial backing for Ukraine’s fight.
“With time, patience, and the financial support of Europe and, in particular, NATO, the original borders from where this war started are very much an option,” Trump said, adding that Russia’s prolonged campaign has made it appear “a paper tiger.” He pledged to supply weapons to NATO “for NATO to do what they want with them” and suggested that now was the right moment for Ukraine to press its advantage. Zelenskyy welcomed the remarks, calling them a “big shift” in U.S. policy, and expressed hope Trump could sway China’s stance on the war.
At the UN General Assembly, Trump repeated his demand that NATO members end imports of Russian oil and gas, criticizing allies for “funding the war against themselves.” He hinted at imposing broad tariffs on nations trading with Russia, including India and China, though negotiations continue. While calling for NATO aircraft to defend alliance airspace against Russian incursions, he later softened his stance, noting it would depend on circumstances.
Trump’s message highlighted deep divisions within NATO and the EU, particularly as Hungary and Slovakia continue importing Russian energy despite broader European efforts to phase it out. EU leaders, meanwhile, are advancing a 19th sanctions package, targeting companies accused of helping Russia evade restrictions.