Trump Calls for Zelensky's Removal After Diesel Deal with Putin

Key points

• Trump stated that Zelensky could have settled the war multiple times but chose not to, suggesting Ukraine needs a new leader to make a deal.
• The U.S.-Russia diesel deal was announced on Friday while Ukrainian negotiators were in Miami for peace talks, which Zelensky described as a betrayal.
• Zelensky accused Russia of using the eased sanctions to fund its war effort, noting that Russian strikes on Zaporizhzhia killed 20 people, including three children, shortly after the deal.
• European leaders, including EU diplomat Kaja Kallas and German officials, rejected the easing of sanctions, with the EU planning to add 1,600 new entities to its Russia sanctions list.
• Trump’s comments came amid rising U.S. diesel prices, which had reached record highs, and ahead of the November midterm elections where fuel costs are a key voter issue.

Background

This development follows months of tension over energy infrastructure. In September 2026, Trump had already pressed Zelensky for an energy truce as U.S. diesel prices climbed above $6.50 per gallon. Experts noted that the price surge was driven by multiple factors, including the U.S.-Iran conflict and refinery disruptions, not solely by Ukrainian strikes on Russian refineries. Trump had previously claimed a mutual energy ceasefire was in place, a claim Kyiv rejected as lacking credible guarantees.

How outlets are covering it

The Washington Post focused on Trump’s direct call for Zelensky’s removal and his frustration with Ukraine’s refusal to settle the war. The Guardian highlighted the immediate military consequences, noting that Russian strikes killed 20 people in Zaporizhzhia shortly after the diesel deal, which Zelensky called a 'thanks' to Trump. The Guardian also emphasized the backlash from European allies, including the EU’s plan to expand sanctions, and the contrast between the 'friendly' Kremlin readout of the Trump-Putin call and Zelensky’s outrage. Axios provided a brief summary of the call for Zelensky’s replacement but did not offer additional details beyond the headline.

Why it matters

The U.S.-Russia diesel deal disrupts four years of Western financial pressure on Moscow and risks undermining the sanctions regime. It could provide Russia with additional revenue to fund its war effort, while also straining U.S.-Ukraine relations and complicating European efforts to maintain a unified stance against Russia. The deal also raises questions about the U.S. role in the peace process and the potential for further escalation in the conflict.

What to watch

The EU is expected to approve a new set of sanctions targeting Russia’s war machine on Monday. Ukrainian officials have promised to respond to the Russian strikes, and Zelensky has stated that Ukraine is ready to take de-escalatory steps only if Russia does the same. The U.S. and Ukraine are likely to continue negotiations, but the diesel deal has created a significant rift in their relationship. The impact on global fuel prices and the broader conflict remains to be seen.