Zelenskyy Eyes Democratic Congress for Increased US Support Amidst Shifting Political Landscape

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has voiced optimism that a shift in power within the United States Congress, following the midterm elections, could lead to enhanced assistance for Kyiv. This sentiment comes as European officials are urging the incoming US Congress to intensify efforts in pressuring Russia to bring an end to the conflict in Ukraine, the most significant in Europe since World War II. Zelenskyy's remarks on Wednesday followed the electoral defeat of US President Donald Trump and the Republican Party, with the Democratic Party securing control of both the Senate and the House of Representatives.

In an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Zelenskyy suggested that the Democratic Party's electoral success could benefit Ukraine. "I am also grateful to the Republicans, but the Democrats speak very clearly about supporting Ukraine and providing assistance to Ukraine," Zelenskyy stated. "They speak about renewing the connection between the United States and Europe… Therefore, there is hope that a balance of power will emerge, and that we will receive more support."

Zelenskyy further elaborated that increased US aid could influence Russian President Vladimir Putin. "If Congress now speaks of strong financial support or military assistance, as Europe is doing and demonstrating today, then that will be something positive that will have an impact on Putin," he told ZDF. This comes after a period of strained relations with President Trump, particularly following a meeting in February 2025 where Trump accused his Ukrainian counterpart of being "ungrateful" for US aid.

Recent actions by President Trump have been viewed as favorable to Russia, including a deal to import Russian diesel and the waiver of sanctions on Russia that had been overwhelmingly approved by Congress as part of legislation supporting Ukraine. Ukraine has also raised concerns about delays in the delivery of interceptor missiles from Washington.

Kaja Kallas, the European Union’s foreign policy chief, expressed hope that the new Congress would "continue supporting Ukraine and also putting more pressure on Russia." She emphasized the strength of the transatlantic alliance, stating, "Europe as well as US, we are much stronger together," and expressed confidence that joint pressure would compel Moscow to cease hostilities.

In Germany, reactions were mixed. Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed skepticism about President Trump altering his course despite the Democratic victory, questioning, "Quite frankly, over the last two years, Trump has largely governed by bypassing Congress. Why should that be any different now?" Conversely, his foreign minister, Johann Wadephul, viewed the "very clear" Democratic win as a potential "new opportunity to launch a fresh initiative" to resolve the conflicts in Ukraine and Iran, expressing optimism that aid to Ukraine, which had been reduced under Trump, would receive renewed attention from US lawmakers.

Other European observers cautioned that with President Trump remaining in office for another two years, significant shifts in US foreign policy were unlikely in the short term. Concerns were raised about President Trump's past rhetoric towards European leaders, his imposition of tariffs, threats to withdraw from NATO, and his interest in Greenland. Austria's foreign minister, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, stated, "Our security and prosperity in Austria and Europe must not depend on how people in Kansas or Iowa vote," highlighting Austria's commitment to strengthening its own defense capabilities and competitiveness.

In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov indicated that Russia hoped President Trump would "continue his peacemaking efforts," irrespective of the election outcomes. Democratic aides have reportedly informed US media that supporting Kyiv will be a priority for the party upon assuming control of the congressional agenda in January. Meanwhile, diplomacy is advancing, with Steve Witkoff, Trump’s envoy, announcing that Washington will convene Ukrainian and Russian delegations in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11 to discuss ending the war and establishing security arrangements for Ukraine. President Zelenskyy confirmed on Wednesday that he had engaged in detailed discussions with Witkoff and Jared Kushner in preparation for the meeting, stating, "The negotiations must move forward at full throttle to bring this war to an end as quickly as possible. Ukraine is ready to take the necessary steps," he posted on X.