President Donald Trump commended the courage of Ukrainian soldiers in their fight against Russia, while acknowledging the steep challenges Kyiv continues to face on the battlefield.

“The Ukrainian soldiers were brave as hell because it’s fighting a force that’s much, much bigger,” Trump said, recognizing the determination of Ukraine’s forces despite being outmatched by Russia’s military power. He added that “a big chunk of territory has been taken,” underscoring the scale of Ukraine’s territorial losses since the start of the conflict.

Trump’s remarks reflect a mix of admiration for Ukraine’s resilience and a sobering assessment of the war’s realities. While Kyiv has repeatedly emphasized its will to resist, the acknowledgment of lost ground highlights the urgent need for continued international support and strategic clarity on Ukraine’s path forward.

The statement comes as diplomatic discussions intensify over potential peace talks, with questions lingering about what a negotiated settlement might mean for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.