According to Politico, U.S. President Donald Trump’s stance on Ukraine has noticeably softened — giving Kyiv hope for a tougher approach toward Russia aimed at forcing the Kremlin to come to the negotiating table.
Source: Gazeta.UA
Journalists of the outlet cite sources indicating that the key factor was the joint summit between Trump and Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska. After the meeting, insiders say, Trump allegedly “realized who Putin really is,” particularly following further strikes on civilian infrastructure in Ukraine.
One key quote: “Trump needed time to understand who Putin truly is,” one Republican source told the publication.
Politico also mentions other factors that reportedly influenced Trump’s change in position:
- Diplomatic contacts from European leaders close to Trump (including Keir Starmer, Alexander Stubb, and Mark Rutte), who worked to ease tensions between Trump and President Zelenskyy;
- Private remarks by the British monarch, which reportedly affected Trump’s attitude toward Ukraine;
- Putin’s visits and receptions in China and North Korea, which also allegedly played a role in reshaping Trump’s assessment.
The outlet emphasizes that as a result of this shift, Washington has strengthened intelligence sharing with Kyiv to assist in strikes on energy facilities deep inside Russia.
Politico also notes that relations between Zelenskyy and Trump are gradually improving: after a public argument in the Oval Office, the Ukrainian president reportedly worked carefully to rebuild trust, reflected in a series of friendlier meetings, including during the UN General Assembly.