Trump changes view on Ukraine and war has a new phase

What caused Donald Trump’s change of heart?

The move was motivated by Ukraine’s resilience and offensive capabilities. The country has carried out strategic attacks inside Russian territory, hitting targets in Moscow and Siberia, in addition to destroying oil refineries. According to international analysis, the Ukrainians have proven that previous predictions of a quick defeat were wrong and that they are reliable military partners.

What is the current situation regarding control of territories in the conflict?

Recent data from the Institute for the Study of War shows that Ukraine is managing to regain more land than it loses. Between the end of last year and May this year, while Russia advanced around 40 square kilometers, Ukrainian forces managed to recapture more than 280 square kilometers, generating an important net territorial gain.

What is the Patriot system and why is it so important?

The Patriot is one of the most advanced air defense systems in the world, capable of intercepting missiles and planes. A clear sign of Trump’s new stance was the positive signal for Ukraine to manufacture this equipment on its own soil. Today, Kiev can shoot down drones with ease, but still has difficulties against Russian missiles, a gap that the Patriot would fill.

How has Russia reacted to these new attacks?

War, which once seemed distant to most Russians, is now part of everyday life in big cities. Ukrainian attacks on refineries caused difficulties in fuel supply and queues at gas stations. Experts point out that negotiating now, from a position of weakness, would be politically dangerous for Vladimir Putin before his own population.

Are we close to a peace agreement or a truce?

Ukrainian commanders believe the next six to nine months will be a ‘turning point’. Kiev’s goal is to gain strategic points to negotiate a truce from a position of strength. However, Trump’s unpredictability and Putin’s resistance to appearing vulnerable make the diplomatic scenario still uncertain and complex.