On September 24, Donald Trump made headlines in New York by stating that Ukraine could regain all the territories occupied by Russia. However, he did not specify how this might be achieved, instead highlighting Ukrainian resilience and criticizing the effectiveness of the Russian army.
This announcement came after a brief meeting with Volodymyr Zelensky. According to the Ukrainian president, the meeting was constructive; Zelensky informed Trump about the situation on the frontline, including Ukraine's liberation of 360 km² over the past month. He noted that Trump now better understands the realities of the conflict and acknowledged the challenge of finding a path to peace.
Zelensky also expressed readiness to hold elections after the war and highlighted the serious situation in Zaporizhzhia, which has suffered a series of attacks. He pointed out economic problems in Russia, including declining defense industry salaries and fuel shortages.
In his statement, Trump emphasized the importance of support from the EU and NATO, refraining from promising increased US assistance. He asserted that Ukraine’s victory is possible only with European financial and political backing, and that Russia’s military might is overstated.
Global leaders responded variably: Emmanuel Macron supported the statement, stressing the need to aid Ukraine, while European politicians highlighted the gradual reduction of dependence on Russian energy. Analysts and journalists note Trump’s rhetoric remains ambiguous and that the US has yet to implement concrete measures like further sanctions or security guarantees for Ukraine.
The Trump-Zelensky meeting triggered discussions about new US sanctions, but practical steps remain on hold. Russian defense enterprises reportedly face economic challenges due to military expenditures and sanctions. The frontline situation remains tense, and Ukraine continues to look to Europe and the US for increased support.
