Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope Wednesday that Democratic gains in US midterm elections will bring increased aid to Kyiv, after American voters gave control of both the Senate and House to the Democratic Party and rebuked President Donald Trump and Republicans.
In an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Zelenskyy said Democrats "speak very clearly about supporting Ukraine and providing assistance to Ukraine" and that "there is hope that a balance of power will emerge, and that we will receive more support." He argued that stronger Congressional backing for military and financial aid could influence Russian President Vladimir Putin.
European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said she hoped the new Congress would "continue supporting Ukraine and also putting more pressure on Russia."
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed scepticism that Trump's approach would change. "Over the last two years, Trump has largely governed by bypassing Congress. Why should that be any different now?" Merz said. Germany's Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul was more optimistic, saying the Democratic victory could create "a new opportunity to launch a fresh initiative" to end wars in Ukraine and Iran.
Zelenskyy has worked to repair relations with Trump since an Oval Office meeting in February 2025 in which the US president accused him of being "ungrateful" for Washington's aid. Trump recently waived sanctions on Russia that Congress had approved and made a deal to import Russian diesel.
Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff said Washington would bring Ukrainian and Russian delegations together in Abu Dhabi on November 10 and 11 to discuss ending the war.