President Donald Trump declared Saturday that Ukraine needs a new leader, urging Volodymyr Zelenskyy to cease attacks on Russian refineries amid a dispute over a U.S. agreement with Moscow. Speaking to reporters outside the White House before departing for a Tennessee rally, Trump stated it was "time for Ukraine to get a new president." He accused Zelenskyy of exacerbating global fuel issues by continuing to authorize strikes on Russian energy infrastructure.
The conflict centers on a new American pact with Russia that temporarily relaxes sanctions on diesel exports. Trump confirmed Friday that Washington agreed with Moscow to suspend these restrictions until April 7. This arrangement permits Russia to release millions of tons of diesel into U.S. and global markets, potentially boosting supply while Americans face higher pump prices.
Zelenskyy criticized the accord, warning it could furnish Russia with extra funds to purchase weapons and sustain its war effort against Ukraine. Trump argued that Ukraine should avoid targeting refineries due to the resulting strain on global energy supplies, asserting that Washington had previously told Kyiv it could take other actions against Russia but should not strike these facilities.
The president also faulted Zelenskyy for failing to secure an agreement to end the war, which began when Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022. "He could have made many deals and for some reason, he never does," Trump said. He described his discussions with Moscow as "highly successful," noting that Russia has agreed to deliver millions in diesel fuel.
This tension unfolds as both nations intensify attacks on critical infrastructure, including energy and transportation systems. Trump is seeking methods to reduce fuel prices as the U.S. confronts rising energy costs linked to the conflict with Iran. His warning places fresh pressure on Zelenskyy to negotiate an end to the war with Russia.