Former President Donald Trump criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for not negotiating a peace deal with Russia to end the ongoing conflict. Speaking at the White House on Saturday, Trump stated that it is time for Ukraine to consider a new leader, claiming that Zelenskyy has not effectively addressed the war. Trump remarked, "I suggest they get a new leader who can make a [peace] deal," and noted that Zelenskyy has lost significant territory during the conflict.
Independent estimates indicate that approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory is currently under Russian control. British defense officials have reported that around half a million Russian soldiers have died in the war, but there are no reliable recent estimates on Ukrainian casualties.
Trump also cautioned Ukraine against targeting Russian oil refineries, stating he had advised Zelenskyy to refrain from such actions. His comments came after Zelenskyy condemned a U.S. plan that could financially benefit Russia and potentially escalate attacks.
In recent weeks, Trump has attempted to shift blame for rising fuel prices onto Ukraine, asserting that Zelenskyy is creating problems for U.S. farmers and ranchers. Trump's remarks followed an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to lift U.S. sanctions on Russian diesel exports.
The Kremlin has responded positively to Trump's suggestion for Zelenskyy's replacement, with Kremlin envoy Kirill Dimitriev expressing support for leadership focused on peace.
Zelenskyy responded to the situation, highlighting the impact of the U.S.-Russia diesel agreement on recent Russian attacks that resulted in casualties in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region.