US President Donald Trump stated that he believes it is time for Ukraine to elect a new president, responding to criticism from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky regarding a recent fuel agreement between Washington and Moscow.
Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump claimed that Zelensky is creating global complications by continuing to target Russian energy refineries. Trump urged the Ukrainian leader to halt these operations and suggested that Ukraine obtain leadership capable of reaching a settlement. His remarks follow comments he made last December also calling for fresh elections in Ukraine, where national votes remain suspended under martial law imposed during the 2022 Russian invasion.
Dispute Over Sanctions and Refinery Strikes
The disagreement arose after Washington confirmed an agreement to temporarily pause sanctions on Russian diesel exports through April 7. Under the arrangement, Russia is expected to supply an initial 300,000 tonnes of diesel to international and American markets, followed by subsequent shipments contingent on the condition of its refining facilities. Ukrainian drone attacks on refineries had previously reduced Russian diesel output by approximately 30 percent, according to International Energy Agency estimates.
Zelensky forcefully condemned the arrangement, arguing that permitting Russian fuel sales provides Moscow with financial resources to fund its military actions and purchase equipment. He characterized the agreement as a direct benefit to Russian President Vladimir Putin and cautioned that it signals permission for Moscow to persist in its bombardment of Ukrainian territory, citing recent deadly strikes in Zaporizhzhia.
Market Pressures and International Reactions
The US initiative to release Russian fuel comes amid sharp increases in domestic energy costs linked to a conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran, which disrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. Soaring diesel prices, currently averaging $6.28 per gallon in the US, have generated substantial political pressure ahead of upcoming midterm elections.
The move has drawn mixed responses internationally. Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy for the Russian president, welcomed Trump’s statements regarding Ukrainian leadership. Conversely, European Union foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas opposed the lifting of sanctions, stating that reduced pressure offers Moscow additional war revenue and emphasizing that European nations intend to approve further sanctions. Meanwhile, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham offered solidarity to Zelensky, advocating instead for an immediate energy ceasefire and a cessation of attacks on Black Sea shipping to stabilize global energy markets.
Source: BBC News
