NEW YORK — U.S. President Donald Trump has made a surprising reversal in his position on the war in Ukraine, expressing strong support for Kyiv and openly criticizing Moscow.

Speaking after a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during the United Nations General Assembly, Trump praised Ukraine’s resilience and claimed the country was capable of regaining all its original territory. He further described Russia as a “paper tiger,” a remark that drew swift rejection from Moscow, which insisted it remained a “bear.”

Trump also called for NATO to adopt a tougher stance, suggesting that allied forces should shoot down Russian jets and drones if they violate NATO airspace. The proposal was welcomed by several Eastern European members, including Poland, which has repeatedly urged for stronger deterrence measures.

Analysts suggest Trump’s shift may have been influenced by Zelensky’s arguments during their private meeting, as well as Trump’s growing frustration with Russian President Vladimir Putin, whom he reportedly believes has not been truthful.

While Ukraine has welcomed Trump’s remarks as a potential boost to its war effort, global observers remain cautious, questioning whether the change represents a genuine strategic pivot or a form of political posturing ahead of U.S. elections.