Trump, Zelensky clash over diesel deal as Russian strikes on Ukraine kill 21, including children

US President Donald Trump has suggested that Ukraine should elect a new president, claiming that current president Volodymyr Zelenskyy has not made enough efforts to end Russia's invasion of Ukraine. In an interview with reporters at the White House, Trump stated that Zelenskyy had the ability to make numerous deals but consistently failed to do so.

The Russian President's top economic negotiator, Kirill Dmitriev, praised Trump's remarks, calling them "iconic and historic" and emphasizing the need for leadership focused on peace rather than Zelenskyy's "warmongering."

The statement from Trump came after Zelenskyy criticized the recent fuel deal between the US and Russia, aimed at alleviating high fuel prices before the US midterm elections. Dmitriev and European officials expressed their disapproval of the deal, arguing that it would finance Russia's war efforts. Zelenskyy described the move as a "gift to Putin" that would neither bring peace nor benefit the civilized world, urging for real de-escalation with Russia on a reciprocal basis.

Trump's claim that the surge in US diesel prices is solely due to Zelenskyy's actions has been disputed. He has previously called for Zelenskyy to cease attacking Russian oil refineries and critical infrastructure, claiming that these strikes were contributing to the global energy crisis. Despite his criticism of Zelenskyy, Trump has acknowledged the need for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

However, Trump's approval rating has declined significantly during his second term, with 71% of American adults disapproving of his handling of the Iran situation.