The Global Story Why is Trump suddenly saying Ukraine can win the war?
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Sep 25, 2025 
Vitaly Shevchenko, Russia editor for BBC Monitoring and a Ukrainian from Zaporizhia, offers unique insights into recent shifts in Donald Trump's rhetoric regarding Ukraine. He dissects Trump's claim that Ukraine could win the war, pondering the potential influence of Zelensky's UN appeal. The conversation shifts to frontline realities amidst costly Russian advances and explores whether Trump's statements signal an actual policy change. Vitaly also examines the Kremlin's response and the complexities of sustaining the conflict, making it a thought-provoking discussion.
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Trump's Bold Claim Lacks Details
- Donald Trump posted that "Ukraine...is in a position to fight and win...all of Ukraine back."
- Vitaly warns the claim lacks detail and may be rhetorical rather than a policy change.
Why 'All Back' Is Hard To Rationalize
- Vitaly says Trump's statement is hard to rationalize because Ukraine has no interest in seizing Russian territory.
- He highlights practical questions about expelling Russia from Crimea and Donbass entrenched since 2014.
Zelensky Calls Trump A 'Game Changer'
- After the meeting, Zelensky told reporters Trump was a "game changer" but admitted he had no specific details.
- Vitaly notes Zelensky repeatedly said he "doesn't have specific details" about US guarantees.