Germany reaffirms support for Zelenskiy after Trump calls for new leader

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said on October 11 that Berlin would continue supporting Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Ukraine's government after US President Donald Trump called for a change of Ukrainian leader.

Speaking at a Christian Democratic Union leadership meeting, Wadephul linked support for Kyiv to Europe's need for stability. He also called for stronger pressure on Vladimir Putin to bring Russia back to negotiations.

The remarks followed Trump's October 10 suggestion that Ukraine needed a new president. The US leader also criticised Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil infrastructure.

The disagreement extends to sanctions policy. Washington announced a temporary easing of restrictions on Russian fuel following a diesel supply agreement. Germany said it would maintain sanctions against Russia, Reuters reported.

Wadephul stressed the need for a consistent position in supporting Ukraine. His remarks did not announce a new meeting with Russian officials or an agreed timetable for renewed talks.