Trump: Ukraine is successfully coping with challenges, while the Russian economy is collapsing

Meeting of Trump and Zelensky in New York

In New York on September 23, 2025, a meeting took place between the presidents of the USA and Ukraine, Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky, timed to coincide with the UN General Assembly. Before the start of the negotiations, the American leader noted Kyiv’s successes in fighting Russian troops.

Assessment of the Situation on the Front

Trump highlighted the effectiveness of Ukrainian actions:

“Honestly, Ukraine is doing very well in stopping this huge army.”

He focused on the economic containment of Moscow, pointing out the difficult economic situation in Russia:

“It is collapsing and is now in a terrible state.”

In the context of the ongoing conflict, the US president noted:

“The war is still ongoing, and this is not very good for Russia.”

Trump emphasized that the conflict was supposed to bring a quick victory for the Russian Federation, but instead, it has dragged on for three and a half years, which is puzzling.

Firm Approach to Violations

Trump also unexpectedly spoke on the topic of Russia’s violation of NATO countries’ airspace. Responding to a question about whether European countries should shoot down Russian planes and drones, he stated: “Yes, I agree.” This statement demonstrates a shift in the security policy approach, which considers more active responses to threats possible.

Support for Allies and Prisoner Exchange

The American president clarified that US support for its NATO allies “will depend on circumstances.” He also did not unequivocally state that he does not trust Vladimir Putin, noting that he will be able to answer this question “in about a month.” This underscores the uncertainty in Russian-American relations.

Additional Successes of the Ukrainian Army

Zelensky shared news about the advances of Ukrainian troops, announcing the liberation of 360 square kilometers of territory over the past month. He also spoke about the encirclement of a thousand Russian soldiers, whom they plan to exchange for their captives. This statement demonstrates the activity of the Ukrainian army on the front.

Economic Measures Against Russia

Zelensky supported Trump’s proposals for European countries to stop purchasing Russian oil and gas. The President of Ukraine reported that he discussed this issue with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico. He noted the importance of finding alternative ways to make this economic decision possible.

Thus, the meeting of the presidents became a platform for exchanging views on key defense and economic issues, painting a complex portrait of current relations in the context of the ongoing conflict. Approaches to security and economics remain a subject of intense discussion between Western countries and Russia.