Trump Suggests Ukraine Should Replace Zelenskyy Amid Conflict Over Russian Diesel Deal

<p>President Donald Trump stated on October 10, 2026, that it was "time for Ukraine to get a new president," urging Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to cease attacks on Russian oil refineries. Trump made these remarks to reporters outside the White House before attending a rally in Tennessee.</p><p>Trump accused Zelenskyy of exacerbating global fuel issues by continuing strikes on Russian refineries. He emphasized, "He'd better d--- well stop," and argued that Ukraine should refrain from targeting these facilities due to their potential impact on global energy supplies.</p><p>Trump remarked, "We said, 'you can do whatever you want to Russia, don't hit the refineries', because that's a world problem that's caused." He also criticized Zelenskyy for not reaching an agreement to end the war, which began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, stating, "He could have made many deals and for some reason, he never does."</p><p>These comments followed Zelenskyy's criticism of a new U.S. agreement with Russia that would temporarily ease sanctions on Russian diesel exports. Trump confirmed that Washington had reached an agreement with Moscow to suspend restrictions on Russian diesel exports until April 7, which would allow Russia to release millions of tons of diesel into U.S. and global markets, potentially increasing fuel supplies.</p><p>Zelenskyy warned that this deal could provide Russia with additional funds to purchase weapons and continue its military actions against Ukraine. The ongoing dispute occurs as both Russia and Ukraine have intensified strikes on energy facilities and other critical infrastructure.</p><p>Trump has been exploring methods to reduce fuel prices as the U.S. faces rising energy costs linked to the conflict with Iran. His comments add pressure on Zelenskyy to negotiate a resolution to the ongoing war with Russia.</p>