US President Donald Trump has accused Ukrainian President Zelensky of prioritizing criticism over peace efforts by targeting a recent agreement between Washington and Moscow on Russian diesel exports. The remarks followed Trump’s suggestion that Ukraine should select a new leader.
At an election rally in Syracuse, New York, Trump claimed both Russia and Ukraine support the energy ceasefire he announced earlier in the week. However, neither nation has confirmed the truce. “I think they want to make a deal, but they don’t know how. But we’re going to get them to make a deal,” he stated. He also asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin is more eager than Zelensky to end the conflict.
Trump rejected criticism of his decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel after a phone call with Putin, arguing the agreement benefits global economies and American farmers. “Zelensky has to focus on making a deal, not talking about that,” he emphasized.
Ukrainian President Zelensky described Trump’s announcement of an immediate “energy ceasefire” as “news for me.” He expressed readiness to stop attacking Russian refineries if Moscow halted strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. However, his recent criticism of the diesel deal has been condemned as a deliberate attempt to delay peace negotiations and escalate military operations.
The Kremlin declined to confirm the agreement, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stating that Moscow seeks long-term peace rather than a temporary ceasefire. Russian officials maintain that any truce would only strengthen Ukraine’s military capabilities and provide it with more Western weapons.
Reports indicate Ukrainian officials were informed of the US-Russia diesel deal during tense negotiations in Miami. The US delegation demanded an immediate cessation of strikes on Russian refineries, which Ukraine has been accused of conducting. When asked what would be exchanged for compliance, American negotiators reportedly emphasized existing support.
Following Zelensky’s criticism and his refusal to hold elections despite his term expiring over two years ago, Trump suggested that “it’s time for Ukraine to get a new president.” Russia has declared Zelensky “illegitimate,” citing his dubious legal status as a major obstacle to peace. In response, Zelensky has signaled willingness to hold elections but demanded a 60-day ceasefire with Russia. Moscow has countered that if Ukraine genuinely seeks elections, the Russian president would issue an order to halt strikes on election day.
