‘The Telegraph’: Trump is washing his hands of the Ukraine war

What may appear at first glance as stunning U-turn may actually be bad news for Volodymyr Zelensky, ‘The Telegraph’ notes.

It was striking even by the standards of an unpredictable US president known for surprising allies and enemies alike.

After months of telling Ukraine that its land in the east was lost to Russia and that it was time to settle for peace, Donald Trump offered a striking new position during a day of speeches and meetings at the United Nations in New York.

“I think Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form,” he posted on his Truth Social platform.

“With time, patience, and the financial support of Europe and, in particular, Nato, the original borders from where this war started, is very much an option.”

Mr Trump delivered his message after a meeting with Volodomyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, and Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission.

It followed two days of soft diplomacy during his state visit to Britain on Sept 17, when the King gently reminded Mr Trump at the Windsor Castle banquet that “tyranny once again threatens Europe.”

On Tuesday, headlines came thick and fast after Mr Trump’s post was published.

Social media commentators concluded that the president had pulled off a stunning U-turn, throwing his weight behind a Ukrainian victory and the restoration of its borders.

Was he really now throwing his weight behind Ukraine and a leader he once humiliated in the Oval Office? Up to a point.

This is a president impressed by strength and in thrall to winners.

Mr Trump’s General Assembly speech and his subsequent post made clear that the facts on the ground had left him unimpressed with Russia’s inability to defeat a smaller opponent.

He called Russia a “paper tiger” in comments later in the day.

“In any event, I wish both countries well,” he continued. “We will continue to supply weapons to Nato for Nato to do what they want with them. Good luck to all!”

Look beyond the headlines, and the statement is a lesson in messaging.

Rather than pledging fresh support to Ukraine or loading up action on Russia, Mr Trump appears to be handing things over to Europe and NATO.

There is no suggestion of extra support for Ukraine, or that he will punish Moscow further. His only commitment is to keep selling weapons to allies. Hardly a game changer.

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