Donald Trump Tells NATO To Shoot Down Russian Jets Crossing Airspace In Fresh Jibe At Putin

Last Updated:September 24, 2025, 13:15 IST

When asked by reporters if he thought of NATO taking on Russian aircraft crossing their airspace, his response was “Yes, I do”.

US President Donald Trump meets with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, in New York City, New York, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

Donald Trump said NATO should shoot down Russian aircraft entering their airspace on Tuesday and claimed that Ukraine can win back all territory, in sudden shift. The US President made the comments while speaking to reporters after meeting Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

“Yes, I do,” Trump said when asked a question about NATO shoot-downs during his meeting with Zelenskyy.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte appeared to take a restrained approach, according to a report by US broadcaster CNN.

Rutte said that the shoot-downs should depend “on available intelligence regarding the threat posed by the aircraft”.

“(This also includes) questions we have to answer like intent, armaments and potential risk to allies, forces, civilians or infrastructure. We will always assess the situation, assess the immediate threat the plane poses,” Rutte told the broadcaster after a meeting of NATO states.

First direct encounters between NATO and Moscow since the start of Ukraine war came recently following alleged incursions of Russian aircraft over Poland, Estonia and other nations. The CNN report said that the incursions tested the alliance’s preparedness and credibility in deterring Russia.

Russian jets allegedly violated Estonian airspace which forced Tallinn to call for a meeting.

About the Author

Shankhyaneel Sarkar

Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev…Read More

Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a senior subeditor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over five years of experience during which he has covered sev… Read More

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