The Kremlin hopes the U.S. election shake-up won't shift Trump's negotiations on Ukraine

The Republican Party's loss in the U.S. midterm elections has caught the attention of Russian observers, who speculate it may lead to greater support for Ukraine when the Democrats assume control of Congress in January. However, the Kremlin appears unconcerned, as Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed optimism that President Donald Trump would continue his efforts towards a peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine.

Talks involving representatives from Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S. are scheduled to take place soon in Abu Dhabi. Peskov also praised the humanitarian efforts led by first lady Melania Trump and highlighted that any challenges from the new Congress would be an "internal matter" for the U.S.

Since taking office, Trump has made decisions that seem to favor Moscow. He recently signed a deal for Russian diesel fuel imports, a reversal of previous U.S. pressure on the Kremlin. Trump also claimed that Kyiv's attacks on Russian oil refineries caused a surge in diesel prices in the U.S. and urged the country to stop the strikes, despite the global energy price increase being primarily due to the Iran conflict.

The Trump administration put a hold on new sanctions against Russia, justifying the pause as in the national interest. Ukrainian military-grade Starlink satellite internet service, crucial for their drone operations, was temporarily slowed by Trump, though the White House denied any involvement. The diesel fuel deal appeared to falter this week due to legal concerns, and two tankers carrying fuel bound for the U.S. changed course.

The Kremlin downplayed the incident, asserting that shipments will continue. Ukraine urgently needs replenished U.S.-made Patriot interceptors to counter Russia's missile attacks, but Washington has exhausted its stockpiles due to the Iran war, prioritizing its own defense needs.