For Trump, Orban is just a torpedo to hit Europe

From the Obozrevatel:

"Ukraine has become "wonderful," Zelenskyy "wonderful," and the Europeans "great, let them pay." What did Trump really mean and what is his main goal today? Interview with Bessmertny 

Roman Pryadun, September 25, 2025

– If we talk specifically about Trump's phrase: “with time, patience, and financial support from Europe, and in particular NATO, the initial borders from which this war began may well be an option” – isn’t that the same as what he said earlier, that the US would withdraw from the process if no active steps were taken? 

I understand your subtext—that Trump is saying, 'Goodbye,' in a way." But no, he didn't say "Goodbye" directly. Moreover, he views everything as a constant opportunity to make extra money—and that includes arms sales. He understands that he can sell weapons to NATO, and then "let them do whatever they want."... However, this is not the final goal: they are obviously interested in obtaining contracts for reconstruction – construction, restoration of infrastructure, and possibly even military infrastructure for conducting operations.  

Last week, American publications ran stories about how private American firms could participate in the restoration of frontline infrastructure: trenches, security systems, bomb shelters, and other local and regional infrastructure. In other words, Trump is acting as he always has: he long ago decided to "make money from the war." This is evident in his approach. This is precisely why Ukraine has become "wonderful," Zelenskyy "wonderful," and the Europeans "great, let them pay."... "Trump is making money" also answers the question about "stopping the war." If he's making money, then "stopping the war" is primarily a word.

- Regarding Trump's remark about Orbán. He said, "I'll call, and the issue of refusing to buy oil from Russia will be resolved." So how should we interpret this? Is this typical Trump, who will forget his own words tomorrow, or does he really intend to resolve anything with a phone call? 

First, regarding Orbán, Trump won't address this issue. He doesn't need Orbán as a partner, but as a torpedo within the European Union. And he will certainly seek out similar "useful partners." Trump has long had his sights set on the European Union. And the problem here isn't Ursula von der Leyen, Merz, or Macron. The American politician generally views Europe as a competitor. And a key competitor at that. 

His remarks about phone calls and Orbán are meaningless. He won't say anything to Orbán. But if Orbán wins the election, he'll become a veritable torpedo, hitting Europe in all directions. Therefore, Trump won't resolve the Orbán issue. Deep down, I'm even sure that Hungarian Foreign Minister Szijjártó's words, "We won't give up," are a ready-made scenario: Orbán will remain silent, and Szijjártó will explain everything... 

-  To summarize what we heard in New York—from Trump, from the Ukrainian president, from other politicians—what awaits us? The negotiation process, even in Istanbul, is being abandoned, the war continues, Europe and Ukraine are consolidating even further. Trump promises continued armament, and that's the extent of his involvement? Is that the outcome?

First, Trump's words are just words. Second, they can be trusted only a quarter at best. Third, Ukraine's future as a European state is clear, and it is linked to European security. We must cooperate with America, we must "get along." But hoping that America will fight for us is not an option. America will profit. This is already clearly stated..."