Zelensky says he hopes a Democratic Congress will bring more U.S. support, while Moscow counts on Trump to keep up peace efforts

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed optimism about a Democratic Congress potentially increasing U.S. support for Ukraine. He stated in an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, "We have bipartisan support, support from both parties. I’m grateful to the Republicans too, but the Democrats are very clear about supporting Ukraine and providing it with aid."

Zelensky believes that increased U.S. aid could bring peace closer, potentially convincing Russian President Vladimir Putin to reconsider his stance on the conflict.

Russian officials, however, remain hopeful that President Trump will continue his peace efforts. Dmitry Peskov, a Kremlin spokesman, said, "President Trump remains in office, and we sincerely hope he will continue his peacemaking efforts as well." The Russian Foreign Ministry emphasized that Russia's foreign policy is not influenced by shifts in the political climate in other countries.

Democrats in the new Congress are expected to push for increased aid to Ukraine and potentially other concessions in exchange for approving Trump's initiatives. European Parliament Vice President Christel Schaldemose expressed optimism about the Democrats' victory, believing it could strengthen support for Ukraine, contribute to the green transition, and improve U.S. relations globally. Some Europeans expect more consistent deliveries of military aid to Ukraine with a Democratic majority in Congress.

However, there are concerns in Europe about Trump's foreign policy becoming more unpredictable after losing control of Congress. Another European official noted that Trump might become more of a "mad dog" than a "lame duck" in international affairs. The war has seen drone attacks on Donetsk, disrupting mobile services and damaging buildings in the city.