European allies publicly back Zelensky after Trump says Ukraine needs a new president

European leaders expressed solidarity with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on October 11, 2026, following U.S. President Donald Trump's suggestion that Ukraine needed a new leader. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul affirmed Germany's continued support for Ukraine and its government, while British Defense Secretary Wes Streeting pledged London's backing for Zelensky, urging strong Western unity in support of Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron echoed these sentiments, stating that Paris would continue to stand by Ukraine and its president.

Trump's remarks came amid criticism of Zelensky for not making deals, with the U.S. president alleging Zelensky hadn't shown the political will to end the war. In response, Zelensky proposed holding new presidential elections without waiting for the war's end, requesting a 60-day ceasefire beforehand. He offered to accept whatever decision the Ukrainian people make in these elections.

Trump had also demanded that Kyiv cease striking Russian oil refineries and negotiated a deal with Moscow to ease U.S. sanctions on Russian diesel exports.

Trump later announced an agreed energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, though details remained unclear. Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine's Armed Forces received these orders but did not specify further. On October 12, Russian drones struck a power plant in Kharkiv, killing three people and injuring 22. Zelensky stated confidence that Putin does not read Trump's social media platform, Truth Social, and that Russian drones operate independently.

Zelensky warned that Ukraine would respond to any Russian strikes, hinting at potential retaliation if Russia does not agree to the energy ceasefire.