United States President Donald Trump stated that Ukraine should consider replacing President Volodymyr Zelenskyy with a new leader to facilitate peace negotiations. Trump criticized Zelenskyy for Ukraine's military actions against Russian oil refineries, which he claims have contributed to rising diesel prices in the U.S. ahead of the midterm elections. "I suggest they get a new leader who can make a deal," Trump said during a press briefing at the White House on Saturday. He added that under Zelenskyy, Ukraine has lost significant territory and suffered substantial casualties.
In response, Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga defended Zelenskyy, stating that he has the support of the Ukrainian people and that external statements affirm his effectiveness in office. Trump has been urging Zelenskyy to cease attacks on Russian energy infrastructure and has attributed high U.S. diesel prices to the conflict in Ukraine rather than other factors.
Trump claimed that if he had been president in 2022, the war would not have started, attributing its onset to incompetence. His comments followed reports of Russian strikes in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, which resulted in at least 20 fatalities.
The ongoing conflict has seen Ukraine facing intensified Russian bombardments, with over 60 reported deaths in the past four days. Trump also announced a deal with Russia to purchase diesel, which involves immediate supplies of over 300,000 tonnes, with further shipments planned. This announcement has drawn criticism from Zelenskyy, who indicated that the deal could enable continued Russian military actions. Zelenskyy also mentioned discussions with European leaders regarding enhancing Ukraine's air defenses and the provision of ammunition for F-16s.
Ukraine's allies in Europe have expressed concern over the diesel deal and reiterated their commitment to sanctions against Russia. Trump's recent actions contrast with a sanctions law he signed last month aimed at reducing Russian oil and gas revenues that support the war effort. The announcement coincided with a meeting in Miami between Trump's envoy and Ukrainian officials to discuss potential peace proposals.