'He better damn well stop' — Trump slams Zelensky for attacking Russian refineries, says Ukraine should get 'new president'

On October 10, U.S. President Donald Trump rebuked President Volodymyr Zelensky for targeting Russian refineries, urging Ukraine to elect a new leader if they seek an end to the ongoing war. Trump's remarks followed a discussion with reporters concerning his recent agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to lift sanctions on Moscow by permitting Russian diesel supplies to enter global markets.

When questioned on the potential impact of the deal on prolonging Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Trump maintained a different perspective.

Trump accused Zelensky of failing to resolve the conflict multiple times and claimed the Ukrainian president opted not to do so. Trump further criticized Zelensky for aggravating the global diesel supply crisis, despite evidence suggesting that the United States' war against Iran is the primary cause of the current shortage. In his response, Trump stated, "We said you could do whatever you want to Russia, don't hit the refineries, because that's a world problem that's caused."

He went on to express concern that Zelensky's actions are harming U.S. farmers and ranchers by disrupting the availability of diesel fuel. Trump's comments did not address his own involvement in the conflict, such as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz or Russia's persistent attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure and civilian areas.

Instead, Trump framed the failure of the U.S. peace efforts as a result of Zelensky's unwillingness to cooperate.

When inquired about the daily hardships faced by Ukrainians due to Russia's escalating aggression, Trump remained silent on holding Moscow accountable and offered no suggestions for the Ukrainian people. He concluded by suggesting that the Ukrainian people should seek a new leader who can facilitate a deal, stating, "He better damn well stop."