Trump Pressures Zelensky as Russia Diesel Deal Sparks Dispute

President Donald Trump urged Ukraine to replace Volodymyr Zelensky, saying Vladimir Putin was more eager for a peace deal, and claimed Russia and Ukraine had agreed to an energy ceasefire—an account both sides disputed. Zelensky said Kyiv had not been consulted, Russia continued striking Ukrainian energy sites, and Ukraine would stop attacking Russian energy infrastructure if Moscow did the same and the United States ensured compliance. Trump’s envoys reportedly urged Kyiv to halt refinery strikes as Washington suspended sanctions on Russian diesel; Trump said Russia would supply hundreds of thousands of tons of fuel as energy prices rose, but no direct exchange for Ukraine was offered. Zelensky questioned the deal, arguing it could give Moscow revenue to prolong the war and that Washington should negotiate with Kyiv. Kamala Harris and European officials also criticized easing pressure on Russia without a de-escalation agreement, amid concerns about U.S. support for Ukraine.