“Time for Ukraine to get new president” – Trump after Zelensky criticizes US-Russia diesel deal

US President Donald Trump has called for a change in Ukraine’s leadership, arguing that the country needs a president capable of negotiating agreements, following a disagreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky over a decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel exports.

According to a report by GhanaWeb on Saturday, October 10, 2026, Trump made the remarks while speaking to journalists outside the White House. He reportedly said, “it’s time for Ukraine to get a new president,” while accusing Zelensky of contributing to international tensions by continuing to approve attacks on Russian oil refineries.

The comments followed an announcement on Friday that Washington and Moscow had agreed to temporarily suspend sanctions affecting Russian diesel exports until April 7. Under the reported arrangement, Russia would initially release 300,000 tonnes of diesel to the United States and international markets, followed by another 500,000 tonnes in November. Further supplies would depend on the condition of Russian refineries.

Zelensky criticised the agreement, arguing that allowing additional Russian energy exports would provide Moscow with revenue that could support its military campaign. His objections came after deadly strikes in Zaporizhzhia, as he held discussions with international partners about protecting Ukrainian civilians and strengthening European security.

The disagreement prompted reactions from several international figures. Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy of Russian President Vladimir Putin, praised Trump’s comments and argued that Ukraine needed leadership focused on achieving peace.

Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham reportedly expressed solidarity with Zelensky. According to the report, their discussions included calls for Russia to accept an immediate ceasefire covering energy infrastructure and stop attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea.

European Union foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas also criticised the easing of sanctions, arguing that the decision could increase the financial resources available to Russia. European foreign ministers were expected to consider additional sanctions against Moscow.

The reported agreement is linked to Washington’s efforts to ease rising fuel costs ahead of the US midterm elections. The report attributed the pressure partly to the war involving Iran, which it said had disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. US diesel prices were reported to average $6.28 per gallon, compared with $3.68 a year earlier, according to AAA.

Trump had previously called for elections in Ukraine. However, the country has remained under martial law since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, with national elections suspended.

The latest exchange highlights continuing disagreements among international leaders over sanctions, energy supplies and the diplomatic approaches needed to address the war in Ukraine.

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