New Delhi, October 11, 2026

US President Donald Trump has criticised Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy over the continued Russia-Ukraine war, claiming that opportunities to reach a settlement have been missed repeatedly. Speaking outside the White House, Trump also raised concerns about Ukraine’s attacks on Russian refineries, arguing that such strikes could worsen global diesel shortages and create economic difficulties for farmers and ranchers.

Trump said the war could have been avoided if he had been president earlier, reiterating his claim that the 2020 US election was rigged. He argued that Zelenskyy had several opportunities to negotiate an end to the conflict but chose not to pursue a settlement. Trump expressed frustration over the prolonged fighting and maintained that the war should never have started.

Addressing Ukraine’s strikes on Russian energy infrastructure, Trump said he had advised Zelenskyy that Ukraine could target other locations but should avoid refineries. He warned that attacks on these facilities could have consequences beyond the battlefield, particularly given Russia’s role in supplying diesel fuel to international markets.

Trump linked the refinery strikes to concerns about diesel availability, saying the attacks could affect farmers and ranchers in the United States as well as fuel supplies worldwide. He argued that a shortage of refinery capacity was already contributing to the problem and criticised Ukraine for targeting facilities despite his warnings.

Trump concluded by reiterating that Ukraine should avoid striking Russian refineries, while maintaining that other military targets were available. His remarks highlight the continuing debate over military strategy, energy security and the prospects for a negotiated end to the Russia-Ukraine war.