Trump Says Ukraine Must Attack Russia to Win War
U.S. President Donald Trump has sparked debate by saying Ukraine cannot win its war against Russia unless it takes the fight directly into Russian territory. Writing on his social media platform, Trump compared Ukraine’s current defensive approach to a sports team that is forced to play only defense without being allowed to attack. “It is very hard, if not impossible, to win a war without attacking an invader’s country,” he wrote, adding, “Interesting times ahead.”
A Contrast to Earlier Diplomacy
Trump’s latest comments mark a sharp contrast to his earlier attempts at promoting peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow. Only weeks ago, U.S. and European officials were exploring possible frameworks for security guarantees to end the war. Russia, however, dismissed the idea of Western troops in Ukraine and insisted on conditions that Ukraine and its allies rejected. Against this backdrop, Trump’s remarks suggest frustration with purely defensive strategies and hesitation about relying solely on diplomacy.
Hints of Escalation Strategy
Reports have suggested that Trump previously asked Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about the feasibility of striking major Russian cities such as Moscow and St. Petersburg. While U.S. officials later described these exchanges as exploratory rather than prescriptive, they reflect Trump’s belief that military escalation may be necessary for Ukraine to gain leverage. His statement comes as Ukraine continues to seek stronger security assurances and long-term support from its allies.
Global Reactions Awaited
Ukraine has not yet issued a direct response to Trump’s suggestion, while European governments remain cautious about any escalation that risks widening the conflict. Analysts believe Trump’s call for offensive action could deepen divisions among Western allies, some of whom prefer a balance of military aid and diplomatic negotiation. The remarks are also expected to influence discussions at upcoming international forums where Ukraine’s security will dominate the agenda.
