Trump Calls for Ukraine Leadership Change as Row Erupts Over Russia Diesel Deal

UPDATE - follow-up to Trump says Ukraine should get new President as he blames Zelenskyy for U.S. diesel prices: U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Ukraine needs a new president, arguing that Volodymyr Zelenskyy has failed to end the war and blaming him for high American diesel prices.

The Deal And Strikes

The remarks follow a deal struck on Friday where the U.S. suspended sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7, with Russia agreeing to supply over 300,000 tons immediately, 500,000 tons in November, 1 million tons soon after, and 3 million tons later. Shortly after the announcement, Russian aerial bombs hit residential buildings in Ukraine's Zaporizhzhia region, killing at least 20 people—including three children—and wounding at least 18 others, according to the State Emergency Service.

Reactions And Fallout

Mr. Zelenskyy criticized the U.S.-Russia diesel agreement as a gift to Moscow that provides funds for military equipment and weapons components. British Prime Minister Andy Burnham spoke with Mr. Zelenskyy and offered complete solidarity, agreeing that Russia should accept an immediate energy ceasefire. Meanwhile, EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas warned that lifting the sanctions gives Moscow extra revenue to continue its war.

Context

President Trump has repeatedly urged Ukrainian leadership to halt strikes on Russian energy infrastructure to help lower global fuel costs. The ongoing conflict has entered its fifth year, with large areas of Ukrainian territory under Russian control amid heavy casualties on both sides.