Ukraine: Trump continues to put President Zelensky under pressure

The US diesel deal with Russia and Donald Trump's demand for replacement from Ukrainian head of state Volodymyr Zelensky are leading to new concerns in Kiev. Does Ukraine have to worry about its most powerful supporter in the war against Russia? A passerby in the capital put it this way: "The Russians will receive money for diesel, which they will then spend on the war against us. On missiles that will kill us. So this is the double face of our so-called 'partners'."

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha publicly supported Zelensky. At X he wrote that Zelensky enjoyed the support of the Ukrainian people and that they had the right to decide for themselves. "Comments from abroad only confirm that he is doing his job well. He deserves support."

Trump renews criticism of Zelensky

But apparently the USA is currently not prepared to provide this support. Because Trump renewed his criticism of Zelensky: "I think he should hold an election and he could have settled this matter many times," Trump told reporters at Joint Base Andrews government airport.

The Ukrainian constitution precludes elections during wartime. But Trump apparently ignores this restriction.

Trump claims: "Russia would like to make a deal"

Just like the diplomatic efforts that have failed so far. Referring to a possible end to Russia's war against Ukraine, Trump said: "Russia would like to make a deal, but for whatever reason Zelensky doesn't want to make a deal."

The war was not started by Ukraine, but by Russia, which invaded the neighboring country more than four and a half years ago. Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin has repeatedly rejected offers for an unconditional ceasefire.

Zelensky had repeatedly agreed to hold direct talks with Putin, but had categorically rejected invitations to Moscow. Several diplomatic initiatives to end the war came to nothing.

Prien speaks of a declaration of moral bankruptcy

From the federal government, Family Minister Karin Prien commented on the US government. At X she wrote: "For a few liters of diesel. What moral bankruptcy." A government spokesman also made it clear that Germany was sticking to its support for Ukraine. "Ukraine's support in its defensive battle remains unbroken."

The chairwoman of the European Parliament's Defense Committee, Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann (FDP), wrote on

Pence: "Putin doesn't want peace"

There is also criticism of Trump in the USA - from a former Trump confidant. Former Vice President Mike Pence warned on X against “throwing Putin’s war machine” a “lifeline.”

ARD correspondent Jan Oppel commented on Trump's possible motives in the daily topics. "He's on the campaign trail and he wants to deliver something for his people." He is particularly looking at farmers who rely on cheap diesel.