Trump Urges Ukraine to Find New President, Cites Concerns Over Russian Oil Refineries

Former President Donald Trump has called for Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to be replaced, citing concerns that Ukraine's strikes on Russian oil refineries are worsening global fuel supplies.

"It's time for Ukraine to get a new president," Trump told reporters outside the White House on Saturday. He asserted that Zelenskyy should cease authorizing attacks on these facilities, arguing that such actions contribute to worldwide energy problems.

"We said, 'you can do whatever you want to Russia, don't hit the refineries', because that's a world problem that's caused," Trump stated. He also criticized Zelenskyy for not reaching an agreement to end the conflict that began with Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, saying, "He could have made many deals and for some reason, he never does."

These remarks followed a dispute over a recent U.S. agreement with Russia to temporarily suspend restrictions on Russian diesel exports. Trump confirmed on Friday that Washington had reached an understanding with Moscow to halt limitations on Russian diesel exports until April 7. This agreement was intended to allow Russia to release millions of tons of diesel into U.S. and global markets, potentially increasing fuel supplies amid rising energy costs.

However, Zelenskyy had warned that such a deal could provide Russia with additional funds to finance its war effort. The conflict has seen both Russia and Ukraine intensify strikes on energy facilities and other key infrastructure.

Trump's comments add pressure on Zelenskyy regarding negotiations to end the war.