Trump calls for new Ukrainian president as U.S. seeks Russian diesel supplies

US President Donald Trump has called for Ukraine to replace President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, escalating tensions over an agreement to release Russian diesel supplies. Trump stated that Ukraine needs a leader capable of negotiating peace with Russian President Vladimir Putin and urged Kyiv to stop targeting Russian oil refineries. The US decision to facilitate Russian diesel exports, including through a Treasury waiver covering certain sanctioned fuel supplies, comes as soaring diesel prices threaten to fuel inflation ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections.

Zelenskyy criticized the agreement, warning that increased Russian energy revenues could help finance Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine. The confrontation intensified after Ukrainian negotiators left Miami earlier than scheduled following peace discussions with US officials. Russian strikes on Ukrainian residential buildings killed at least 20 people, and Trump suggested Zelenskyy should hold elections, arguing that Moscow wanted a settlement.

The dispute highlights tensions between Washington’s efforts to contain domestic fuel costs and Western efforts to restrict Russia’s energy revenues.

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