Trump Calls for Ukraine to Replace Zelensky Amid Diesel Deal Controversy

<p>President Donald Trump stated on Saturday that Ukraine should replace President Volodymyr Zelensky with a leader willing to negotiate with Russia to resolve the ongoing war. </p><p><strong>Context:</strong> Trump's comments followed Zelensky's criticism of a recent diesel deal Trump made with Russia, marking a significant tension between the two leaders since their meeting in February 2025.</p><hr /><p><strong>Details:</strong> On Friday, Trump announced a deal with Russia to lift sanctions, allowing Russian diesel exports to the U.S. and the global energy market.</p><ul><li>Zelensky expressed surprise at the deal, which he felt was made without Ukraine's involvement, calling it "not fair and not honest," and described it as a "sign of weakness" from Trump and a "birthday gift" to Russian President Vladimir Putin.</li><li>A U.S. official indicated to Axios that Trump pursued the diesel deal after Zelensky did not heed multiple U.S. requests to cease attacks on Russian oil refineries.</li></ul><p><strong>Trump's Statements:</strong> Trump remarked that Zelensky had opportunities to negotiate with Russia but chose not to. </p><ul><li>"I suggest they get a new leader who can make a deal," Trump told reporters. "… And I think it's time for Ukraine to get a new president."</li><li>He also mentioned that he had urged Zelensky to stop attacking Russian oil refineries, claiming that Zelensky's actions were detrimental to American farmers.</li><li>"He better damn well stop," Trump added.</li></ul>