Americanswers… on 5 Live! Can we trust what Donald Trump says about Ukraine?

Sep 24, 2025

Donald Trump delivered a lengthy address at the UN, making sharp critiques of European nations and immigration. His statement about Ukraine regaining lost territory raises questions about his shifting stance on the conflict. The hosts delve into his attacks on the UN, and the public’s reaction to his controversial medical claims. Meanwhile, Jimmy Kimmel’s return adds to the heated debate around free speech and censorship in America, as major political events unfold. It's a lively mix of politics, controversy, and media scrutiny!

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INSIGHT

Trump's Sudden Ukraine Optimism

Donald Trump told the UN that Ukraine could regain all territory lost to Russia, signalling a sudden optimistic turn.
Sarah Smith and others say this is theoretical and lacks commitment of concrete US support to make it happen.

INSIGHT

Inconsistency Defines Trump's Ukraine Views

Trump has been inconsistent on Ukraine, alternating praise for Zelensky with support for Russia and negotiated land concessions.
Sarah Smith says his recent tougher tone likely reflects frustration at Vladimir Putin's inaction rather than a firm policy shift.

INSIGHT

UN Critique Signals Wider Global Rift

Trump used his UN speech to attack the institution, blaming it for immigration and climate policies he opposes.
Hosts note the speech highlighted deep US-European policy divisions and Trump's broader global vision.

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Donald Trump’s appearance at the United Nations was a clear - and at times stark - outline of his global vision, often involving sharp attacks against his opponents.

His speech - the longest by any US president in history - took aim at countries who have recently recognised a Palestinian state, including a number of European countries. It was Europe itself where the president reserved some of his strongest criticism, arguing it was being “destroyed” by immigration and policies to tackle climate change, which he described as a “con job”. We answer your questions on Trump’s speech and his damning judgement on the U.N itself.

One of the biggest stories of the week came after the president’s speech when he wrote on Truth Social that he believed Ukraine could regain the territory it has lost to Russia in the war. How has the president’s position shifted so dramatically?

And, Jimmy Kimmel is back on late-night television after a brief suspension following his comments on the killing of Charlie Kirk. He gave an emotional monologue at the start of his show and called out ‘anti-American’ threats to free speech. Are Donald Trump’s critics being silenced?

HOSTS: • Justin Webb, Radio 4 presenter • Sarah Smith, North America Editor • Marianna Spring, Social Media Investigations correspondent • Anthony Zurcher, North America correspondent

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This episode was made by George Dabby with Alix Pickles and Kris Jalowiecki. The technical producer was Mike Regaard. The series producer is Purvee Pattni. The senior news editor is Sam Bonham.

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