Donald Trump Urges Volodymyr Zelenskyy's Replacement

Trump said Ukraine needs a different negotiator as his clash with Zelenskyy deepened.

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Updated Oct 19, 9:00pm ET

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What happened

President Donald Trump said Ukraine should have someone else negotiate with Russia, arguing that President Volodymyr Zelensky should have settled the war earlier. Trump said he would do anything to end the war, even if Zelensky were not involved. The dispute comes during Russia’s invasion, as strikes hit Ukrainian cities and Ukraine depends on U.S. intelligence, weapons and communications support. Trump defended sanctions relief and a Russian diesel deal as ways to lower fuel prices, end the war and secure a hostage. Zelensky said Washington is pressuring Ukraine toward a Russia-friendly settlement. Ukraine says U.S. warnings and satellite service have been disrupted; U.S. officials deny deliberate restrictions. Zelensky is expected to meet U.S. negotiators.

How each side covered it

From the left

Left-leaning outlets framed Trump as reviving ties with Moscow while pushing pressure away from Russia and onto Ukraine. The New York Times said his moves showed a drive to normalize relations with Moscow while undercutting Ukraine. The Boston Globe emphasized fears that reduced support could weaken Ukraine’s fight and push it toward capitulation.

From the right

Right-leaning outlets led with Trump’s view that Zelensky had become a barrier to ending the war. The New York Post cited Trump saying Ukraine needed a new negotiator rather than Zelensky at the table. The Washington Examiner highlighted warnings that limiting Ukraine’s capabilities while easing pressure on Russia shifts leverage in Moscow’s favor.

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