Trump Urged Zelensky to Take Bolder Stance toward Russia

US President Donald Trump privately advised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to take a “bolder” stance toward Russia, the Kyiv Independent reported, citing a senior Ukrainian official.

Kyiv now sees the remark as a signal that Washington supports increasing pressure on Moscow to force it into negotiations. The official said Trump believed Russian President Vladimir Putin would not make compromises without significant pressure.

US officials have not confirmed that Trump supports Ukrainian strikes deep inside Russian territory. They have instead emphasized his belief in “peace through strength”.

There is also growing confidence in Kyiv that recent battlefield developments have strengthened Ukraine’s position in the eyes of the White House.

The shift in tone was reflected at the G7 summit, where Trump joined other leaders in endorsing a statement on continued support for Ukraine, including the possibility of licenses for domestic weapons production.

(mja)