Kremlin backs Trump's Zelensky criticism but notes talks impossible without him

The Kremlin has endorsed Donald Trump's criticism of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, agreeing that he is unwilling to negotiate an end to the war, but acknowledged that talks are impossible without Kyiv's current leadership. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Moscow fully shares Trump's assessment that Zelensky avoids responsibility for peace settlement. The statement followed Trump's Newsmax interview, where he claimed Zelensky doesn't seek a deal and suggested a peace agreement could be reached without him. Trump also condemned Ukraine's renewed strikes on Russian oil refineries as "a disgrace," citing rising global fuel prices. Zelensky has repeatedly stated readiness for talks if Russia takes concrete steps toward a ceasefire, including proposing elections under a 60-day truce.