Zelensky and Kremlin React to US Midterm Results

International leaders responded on Wednesday to the United States midterm elections, in which Democrats regained control of both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The results, announced on Tuesday, prompted reactions from Ukraine, Russia, and Iran about the potential impact on their relations with Washington.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed hope that the new Congress would lead to stronger American backing for his country. In an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, he said he was grateful to Republicans as well, but added that Democrats "speak very clearly" about supporting Ukraine and providing aid. Zelensky also noted that Democrats talk about rebuilding ties between the United States and Europe, which he believes could lead to more support. He suggested that a unified congressional message on military and financial help would have a positive effect on Russian President Vladimir Putin. The new Congress will begin its term in January 2027.

From Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia sincerely hopes President Donald Trump will continue his peace efforts related to the war in Ukraine. He mentioned that a new round of trilateral negotiations is expected soon and described the mediation efforts of First Lady Melania Trump as successful. Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov added that Russia's policy on Ukraine is based on long-term principles and does not depend on political fluctuations in other countries. He said Moscow is waiting for final election results, noting that the Democratic Party's approach to relations with Russia is "extremely negative" but not new.

In Iran, Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei warned that anyone who believes the election outcome will change Washington's behaviour towards Tehran is "deeply mistaken". According to state news agency IRNA, he said Iran sees the end of US hegemony as near. Khamenei also referred to Tehran's destruction of American bases in the region and control of the Strait of Hormuz as part of its campaign against US dominance.

The midterm elections saw Democrats win control of both chambers after two years of Republican majorities, a shift that could influence the final two years of Trump's presidency.