Trump says Ukraine needs new leader who can deal with Putin

US President Donald Trump has criticized Ukraine's leader, Volodymyr Zelensky, for his reluctance to hold elections during wartime, suggesting that Zelensky should step down and a new president be appointed. During a press conference with reporters at the White House, Trump called for an end to attacks on Russian oil refineries and stated that Ukraine needs a leader "who can make a deal" with Russia.

However, Zelensky has condemned the US decision to release Russian diesel fuel into the global markets, arguing that it will provide Russia with additional resources to continue the war. The move was made in an effort by the White House to address soaring fuel prices ahead of the midterm elections. Zelensky's negotiators left Miami early after talks with Trump envoys on ending Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, and at least 20 people were killed in Russia's attack on residential buildings in Ukraine.

In response to the US announcement, Germany and the UK reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining strict sanctions on Russia. Some Republicans have vowed to introduce legislation blocking any purchases of Russian oil, while others argue that the deal should wait until the war is over.