Former U.S. Ambassador to Ukraine William Taylor joins Independence Avenue Media Editor-in-Chief Ia Meurmishvili for an in-depth interview on the latest developments in the Russia–Ukraine war and U.S. policy. In this conversation, Taylor reacts to President Donald Trump’s surprising remarks after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, where Trump said that Russia’s economy is in “BIG trouble” and, for the first time, openly suggested that Ukraine can “WIN.” Taylor calls this language unprecedented, noting that no previous U.S. administration has used such direct terms about a possible Ukrainian victory and a return to Ukraine’s 1991 borders. The discussion explores the state of Russia’s economy, weakened by sanctions, battlefield losses, and Ukrainian strikes on oil refineries, as well as Ukraine’s growing domestic defense industry — with drones and weapons now being produced at scale inside the country. Taylor also highlights the role of European support, particularly the EU proposal to use $300 billion in frozen Russian central-bank assets to fund Ukraine’s defense and reconstruction. Taylor warns that while Trump’s new tone is notable, U.S. policy may remain uncertain. He argues that Western unity is essential, and that Ukraine is not only fighting for its own survival but also defending European security and the principle that borders cannot be changed by force. Recorded September 25, 2025, this interview provides a unique perspective from a veteran U.S. diplomat on what Ukraine needs now — from long-range weapons and air defenses to stronger sanctions and financial support — in order to secure victory against Russia’s ongoing aggression.
Amb. Taylor: Why Ukraine Has the Advantage Now
Ambassador William Taylor on Trump’s shift, Ukraine’s resilience, and why Western unity will decide the outcome of the war.
