Trump Urges Ukraine to Replace Zelenskyy Amid Diesel Deal with Russia
Trump claims Zelenskyy is responsible for U.S. diesel prices and calls for a new Ukrainian leader as he secures a Russian fuel deal.
POLICY WIRE — Washington, United States — Former U.S. President Donald Trump has called for Ukraine to replace its leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, accusing him of failing to end the war with Russia and linking high U.S. diesel prices to Kyiv’s actions.
Speaking on Saturday, October 10, 2026, Trump claimed Zelenskyy could have made peace deals but failed to do so. He also blamed Ukraine for rising fuel costs, despite the U.S.-led conflict in Iran driving global energy prices higher. The remarks came after Trump finalized a deal with Russian President Vladimir Putin to supply U.S. diesel ahead of the midterm elections.
Trump’s comments sparked backlash from Ukrainian officials and allies, who criticized the move as undermining sanctions against Russia. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy condemned the attacks on Zaporizhzhia, where at least 20 people were killed, including children, and warned that the deal would empower Moscow. European leaders also expressed concern over the agreement, with Sweden and Germany reaffirming their commitment to sanctions against Russia.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)