Russian Presidential Press Secretary Peskov stated on October 11, 2026 that it is important for Russia that there are individuals within the Kiev regime who demonstrate political will, are willing to accept reality, and promote a peaceful resolution of the Ukrainian issue.

Peskov made the above statement in an interview with TASS regarding US President Trump's remarks on replacing the Ukrainian president.

On October 10, 2026, Trump said that "Ukraine should have a different president," implying that Ukrainian President Zelensky did not do enough to end the conflict, while accusing Zelensky of causing the rise in US diesel prices. Trump also urged Ukraine to hold presidential elections.

Zelensky responded on October 11, 2026, stating that Ukraine's choice of leader should be decided by its society and people. He also said that Ukraine is in a state of war, and holding elections now is "really difficult", unsafe, and not in accordance with the Ukrainian constitution.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zakharova posted on social media on October 11, 2026, stating that Zelensky used the term 'leader' instead of 'president' in his response, implying that the necessity of presidential elections has been downplayed.Editor/Min Jing