Trump threatens to oust Zelensky

US President Donald Trump has called for the removal of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and the installation of a new leader. He expressed anger at Zelensky for criticizing the US decision to temporarily ease sanctions on Russian diesel exports. Trump claims that the Ukrainian president is creating obstacles to reaching an agreement with Russia.

Speaking to reporters outside the White House on Saturday (October 10), Trump said, "I think it's time for Ukraine to have a new president." He added that Ukraine needs a leader who can reach a deal.

Criticizing Ukraine's attack on Russian oil refineries, Trump said that these attacks should be stopped, because their impact is being felt around the world. Although Ukraine had an opportunity to negotiate with Russia, Zelensky was unable to seize it.

Trump's remarks come at a time when disagreements between Washington and Kiev are intensifying over the US decision to ease sanctions on Russian energy exports.

On Friday, Trump said he had reached an agreement with Moscow to suspend sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7. Under the agreement, Russia will initially supply 300,000 tons of diesel to the US and international markets. Another 500,000 tons are planned for November. Trump also said more fuel would be delivered later.

However, Zelensky has strongly criticized the decision, fearing that easing sanctions will allow Russia to earn additional revenue, which could be spent on continuing the war against Ukraine and acquiring new military equipment.

Zelenskyy accused Moscow of viewing the deal as an opportunity to continue the war. After deadly attacks in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, he said Russia should not be sent the message that it can benefit from energy trade by bombing cities.