US President Donald Trump has stated that Ukraine can reclaim all land seized by Russia since the 2022 invasion, signalling a significant change in tone from earlier suggestions of possible territorial compromise. Speaking at the United Nations in New York, Trump argued that Russia is facing severe economic pressure and urged NATO allies to halt all imports of Russian oil.
A stronger stance on Ukraine’s territorial integrity
Trump made the remarks during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasising that with NATO and European Union support, Ukraine could “fight and win all of Ukraine back in its original form.” The comments contrast with his earlier proposals that hinted at negotiated land swaps. Zelenskyy welcomed the remarks, describing them as a crucial shift that could strengthen Kyiv’s position both militarily and diplomatically.
Russia described as economically vulnerable
The president claimed Russia was “aimlessly fighting” and suffering from what he called “big economic trouble.” He argued that sanctions, combined with the costs of prolonged war, have placed Moscow under strain. While Western restrictions have hit Russian exports and finances, analysts note that energy revenues remain a key source of resilience, particularly through continued trade with countries outside NATO. Trump’s remarks, however, suggest confidence that economic pressures are eroding Russia’s ability to sustain the conflict.
Energy imports at the centre of the debate
Central to Trump’s message was a demand that NATO members immediately cease imports of Russian oil. He warned that continuing such trade meant “funding the war against themselves” and floated the possibility of tariffs on nations that do not comply. The proposal reflects Washington’s push to increase economic isolation of Moscow but raises practical challenges. Several NATO members, including Hungary and Slovakia, remain heavily dependent on Russian supplies and have resisted sudden embargoes.
Potential consequences for NATO unity
Trump’s intervention places renewed focus on NATO’s ability to maintain unity under pressure. While some allies may back stronger measures, others face significant domestic and economic constraints that make a full embargo difficult to implement. The issue could expose divisions within the alliance at a critical stage in the war. For Ukraine, Trump’s support is symbolically important, reinforcing international attention on its territorial claims and bolstering its diplomatic position.
Newshub Editorial in North America – 24 September 2025
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