Trump Says Ukraine Needs New President Amid Diesel Deal Dispute
Constantvpn.com – “Time for Ukraine to get new president” was Donald Trump’s message as he intensified criticism of Volodymyr Zelensky after the Ukrainian leader condemned a temporary arrangement allowing Russian diesel exports despite sanctions. Trump argued that Ukraine needed leadership willing to reach an agreement with Moscow.
The clash comes during major disruption in global energy markets. Conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran has restricted movement through the Strait of Hormuz, a route used by about one-fifth of the world’s oil products. The pressure on supplies has pushed diesel prices sharply higher.
“It’s time for Ukraine to get a new president,” Trump said outside the White House.
Trump accused Zelensky of increasing tensions by authorising attacks on Russian oil-refining facilities. He said Ukraine had been allowed to act against Russia, but should avoid refinery targets because of their wider consequences for global fuel supplies.
“He’d better damn well stop,” Trump said, adding that Ukraine should seek “a new leader who can make a deal”.
Temporary Pause on Russian Diesel Sanctions
Trump said Washington and Moscow had agreed to pause sanctions on Russian diesel exports until 7 April. The first release would involve 300,000 tonnes of diesel for US and international markets, followed by a further 500,000 tonnes in November.
He said an additional one million tonnes could be made available afterwards, with another three million tonnes expected within a short period. The size and timing of future deliveries would depend on the condition of Russia’s diesel refineries.
The agreement is intended to ease fuel shortages and high prices. Average US diesel prices have reached $6.28 (£4.74) a gallon, compared with $5.94 a month earlier and $3.68 a year ago. Higher diesel costs can affect freight companies, farmers, construction firms and retailers, increasing broader inflationary pressure.
Zelensky said the deal would give the Kremlin funds that could be used to buy more military equipment. He described it as a gift to Vladimir Putin and warned that Moscow could interpret it as approval to continue its military campaign.
Energy Attacks and Pressure for a Deal
Russia and Ukraine have increased strikes on energy infrastructure and transport networks in recent months. Ukrainian drone attacks on Russian refineries have contributed to substantial disruption inside Russia, where fuel shortages emerged during two periods in the past 10 months.
The International Energy Agency has said Russian diesel production fell by an estimated 30%. That reduction has become more significant as the conflict involving Iran and the effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz have constrained supplies from other regions.
Trump said Zelensky had missed previous chances to reach an agreement with Russia. His repeated assertion that it is time for Ukraine to get new leadership has deepened the public dispute between Washington and Kyiv.
“He could have made many deals and for some reason, he never does,” Trump said.
Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy for Putin, welcomed the comments and called them “iconic and historic”. He said Ukraine needed leadership focused on securing peace.
Europe Rejects Easing Pressure on Moscow
The diesel arrangement has also drawn criticism in Europe. Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign affairs chief, said easing sanctions would strengthen Moscow’s capacity to finance the war.
“This is not the time to ease pressure on Russia, and Europe won’t,” Kallas said.
EU foreign ministers were expected to consider what Kallas described as the largest sanctions package against Russia since its full-scale invasion began. The measures were due to be discussed on Monday.
Zelensky also spoke with several allied leaders on Saturday. A Downing Street spokesperson said Prime Minister Andy Burnham had expressed complete solidarity with Ukraine’s president.
The leaders agreed that Russia should accept an immediate ceasefire covering energy infrastructure and stop attacks on shipping in the Black Sea. Such a move could help energy and food products reach international markets while reducing threats to civilian facilities and maritime trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is diesel important to the wider economy?
Diesel is widely used by freight vehicles, farm machinery and construction equipment. When prices rise, transport and operating costs can increase and contribute to higher prices for goods and services.
Why does the Strait of Hormuz matter?
The strait is a critical route for global oil and fuel shipments. Restrictions on traffic can reduce available supplies and place upward pressure on energy prices in the US, Europe and other markets.
What does Trump mean by saying it is time for Ukraine to get new leadership?
Trump has argued that Ukraine needs a president willing to negotiate an agreement with Russia. Zelensky and European officials have instead stressed the need to maintain pressure on Moscow and protect Ukraine’s security.