Trump’s Mixed Signals on Ukraine Draw Kremlin Pushback

After earlier diplomacy and comments about his rapport with Vladimir Putin, President Trump abruptly shifted rhetoric this week, posting on Truth Social that Russia was a “paper tiger” and saying Ukraine could “win all of Ukraine back,” then telling reporters he would “not going to ever call anybody a paper tiger.” The Kremlin, through spokesman Dmitry Peskov, mocked the phrase — likening Russia to a bear — but said it assumes Washington and Trump remain committed to pursuing a peaceful settlement. Advisers were reportedly surprised by the pronouncements, and analysts are divided over whether the comments represent a genuine policy reversal or a tactical move to prod Moscow or distance the U.S. from direct mediation. Trump acknowledged his rapport with Putin had not produced the peace he promised, and the mixed signals leave open whether Washington will materially change support for Kyiv or return to earlier mediation efforts.