Why emboldened Donald Trump has changed his stance on Ukraine

As U-turns go, it's a game-changer.

Donald Trump has pivoted from pressing Ukraine to surrender territory to suggesting it's able to win all its land back.

This is the man who threw Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy out of the White House in February and brought Russia's Vladimir Putin in from the cold in Alaska last month.

So, why the handbrake turn from framing negotiations as the most practical outcome to a new-found confidence in Ukraine, when supported by its European neighbours and NATO?

Firstly, it could be the military and economic reality on the ground. Russia's paying a high price for the war, both in manpower and finances.

Trump has acknowledged that Moscow is in "big economic trouble", which strengthens the case for Ukraine prevailing with Western help.

Ukraine's resilience has also shifted perceptions - the impossible now looking possible if allies remain committed.

Secondly, it could be the influence of allies. European leaders flew to Washington en masse last month to urge caution in dealings with Putin.

European NATO members have stepped up aid to Ukraine, further weakening the President's rhetoric about America carrying the financial burden.

He's suddenly aligning himself with European countries, endorsing the shooting down of Russian planes violating their airspace.

Thirdly, it could be more about domestic politics, with the president under bipartisan scrutiny at home over his "softly, softly" approach to Russia.

A tougher national defence posture could help him consolidate support among Republicans, while also appealing to moderates, who regard the defence of Ukraine as a test of national credibility.

Trump versus the world

There's another factor worth considering - Trump's negotiating tactic. He has a long record of changing position to gain leverage.

Talk of compromise might have been the strategy for getting Ukraine and Russia into talks, but with Russia showing no willingness to compromise, his calculation shifting back to the restoration of Ukraine.

Whatever the reason for his change of heart, and whether it translates into US policy, the last three days have shown an emboldened Trump.

From his declaration of "hate" for his opponents during a memorial service for Charlie Kirk, to his sensational claim to have "found an answer on autism", to his derision of the UN, he's unfiltered right now.

Place him in front of a microphone or online, and it's Trump versus the world.

(c) Sky News 2025: Why emboldened Donald Trump has changed his stance on Ukraine