This Is Not A Drill with Gavin Esler Trump backs Ukraine – What does this mean for Zelenskyy and Putin?
Sep 25, 2025
Security analyst Jimmy Rushton, based in Kyiv, shares his insights on Trump's recent support for Ukraine's territorial claims. He discusses the potential implications of Trump's shift and the dynamics at the UN General Assembly. Rushton evaluates NATO's strategies, including the idea of shooting down Russian aircraft and the feasibility of coalition troop deployments. He also provides an assessment of the frontline conditions as winter approaches and highlights strategic flashpoints for Ukraine amidst ongoing tensions with Russia.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Trump’s Rhetoric Shift Reflects Real Policy Trends
- Trump has shifted rhetorically to say Ukraine can win back all its territory with European and NATO support.
- Jimmy Rushton credits Ukrainian and European diplomacy and notes policy moves like PULSE and foreign military sales reflect that shift.
Respond Firmly To Airspace Violations
- Defend NATO airspace assertively: warn then shoot down violating warplanes that refuse to leave.
- Jimmy Rushton says international law supports this and ambiguity invites further Russian probing.
Ambiguity Encourages Aggression
- Failing to react to incursions signals weakness and may invite further Russian action.
- Rushton argues ambiguity in defense is more dangerous than decisive responses.