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Trump calls for Zelensky's replacement: "It's time for a new president"

U.S. President Donald Trump has demanded the replacement of his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelensky as the dispute over diesel supplies to Russia intensifies.

11 October 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: Trump calls for Zelensky's replacement: "It's time for a new president" — Archive photoPhoto: Jaakko.kulta · Wikimedia Commons · CC BY-SA 4.0

In a conversation with journalists, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Ukraine needs a new president to reach an agreement with Russia. Trump explained that Zelensky had numerous opportunities to end the Ukraine war but chose not to take advantage of them. These comments came in the context of Zelensky's criticism of a recent diesel deal between the U.S. and Russia.

Trump pointed out that Zelensky could have utilized several opportunities throughout the conflict to end the war, but according to him, he did not do so. The U.S. President urged Ukraine to choose a leader willing to advance negotiations with Russia. These remarks could be interpreted as a direct response to Zelensky's accusations that the diesel agreement amounts to an investment in Russia's war machinery.

Zelensky had previously criticized Trump sharply during a press conference. He described the diesel supply agreement as problematic for Ukraine and accused the U.S. of not prioritizing Ukrainian interests. This led to a heated exchange between the two leaders.

The dispute between Trump and Zelensky particularly escalated following the announcement of the diesel deal, which allowed the U.S. to import Russian diesel. Trump accused Zelensky of causing high fuel prices in Ukraine, while Zelensky accused Trump of using Ukraine for his own political gain.

Additionally, Trump suggested that a change in leadership at the top of the Ukrainian government could facilitate conflict resolution and peace in the region. He emphasized that the current situation is unsustainable for all parties involved and that Ukraine urgently needs a new direction.

The recent escalation of tensions between the two leaders raises questions about the future of U.S.-Ukraine relations. Observers note that these developments could impact U.S. support for Ukraine, especially in light of the upcoming political elections in the U.S.

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