On February 20, a source close to the US President said that Ukrainian President Zelensky should "immediately" leave Ukraine and move to France to avoid hindering the peace talks with Russia. It is reported that the disappointment within the White House towards Zelensky is growing.
It is reported that tensions between Washington and Kiev have escalated after Zelensky criticized the move of ending the US policy of no diplomatic contact with Russia. On the 18th local time, US and Russian officials held high - level talks in Saudi Arabia to restore relations and resolve the Ukraine crisis.
A source familiar with the internal discussions in the White House said that these developments are "not new", and added that "I heard discussions about holding elections in Ukraine and replacing the leader months ago".
The source also emphasized that there is widespread opposition to Zelensky among senior White House officials.
Another insider close to the US President said, "The best thing for Zelensky and the world is for him to go to France immediately."
An anonymous Ukrainian political analyst and active - duty soldier also said, "The US administration clearly dislikes Zelensky and does everything to make everyone know it."
He also said, "The US President's recent remarks indicate that he wants Ukraine to hold elections as soon as possible and hopes that someone more inclined to negotiations will replace Zelensky. This person could be someone trusted by the US President and his allies: a military leader or a businessman."
It is reported that Zelensky's presidential term expired in May 2024, and he has been refusing to hold new elections on the grounds of martial law due to the ongoing "war".