Washington:US President Donald Trump has proposed that Ukraine consider electing a new president following Volodymyr Zelensky's criticism of a US-Russia diesel agreement. Zelensky condemned the deal, which releases millions of tonnes of Russian diesel into the US, as it provides financial support to Moscow for its ongoing conflict with Ukraine.
According to Ghana Web, Trump expressed his disapproval of Zelensky's actions, accusing him of creating global issues by continuing attacks on Russian refineries. Trump remarked that Zelensky should cease these actions and suggested a change in Ukrainian leadership would be beneficial for negotiations.
The war against Iran, initiated by the US and Israel, has disrupted global fuel supplies, notably by closing the Strait of Hormuz, a key oil transit route. This, along with intensified strikes between Russia and Ukraine on energy infrastructures, has further strained the energy markets.
Trump emphasized the global implications of targeting refineries and criticized Zelensky for missing opportunities to make deals. Meanwhile, Kirill Dmitriev, an envoy for Russian President Putin, hailed Trump's comments as significant and suggested Ukraine requires leadership committed to peace.
The US has agreed to pause sanctions on Russian diesel exports until April 7, a move confirmed by Trump. Zelensky responded by warning that this would enable Moscow to finance its military operations. He voiced concern over recent attacks on Zaporizhzhia and called on allies to take decisive actions to protect Ukraine and European security.
UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham has expressed solidarity with Zelensky, agreeing that Russia should cease its energy-related hostilities immediately to stabilize global markets. EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas also criticized the deal, stating that easing sanctions at this time would bolster Moscow’s war capabilities. She indicated that European ministers plan to implement significant sanctions against Russia.
The US-Russia deal aims to reduce fuel prices in the US, which have surged due to the war with Iran. The average diesel price has risen significantly, impacting American consumers and contributing to inflation. The agreement outlines the phased release of Russian diesel into the market, contingent on the condition of Russian refineries, which have suffered from Ukrainian drone attacks.
Trump had previously called for new elections in Ukraine, arguing that Ukrainian citizens should have the option to replace Zelensky. However, due to martial law since the outbreak of the war in 2022, elections have been suspended in Ukraine.