More US help could bring pressure on Putin, Zelenskyy hopes as Democratic Congress gains ground for Ukraine
Zelenskyy looks to Congress
In an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Zelenskyy said Democratic gains in the midterms might benefit Ukraine. He also argued that additional American assistance could affect Putin. Zelenskyy has sought to mend relations with US President Donald Trump after a tense Oval Office meeting in February 2025. Trump had criticized the Ukrainian leader over Washington’s support.
Europe urges pressure on Russia
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas said she wanted the new Congress to maintain support for Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia. She made the appeal as European officials considered the implications of the election results.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz doubted Trump would alter his approach, while Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul saw a possible opening for a new initiative. Wadephul also said Ukraine aid, reduced under Trump, might receive more attention from lawmakers in both parties.
Caution and ongoing diplomacy
Other European officials warned that US policy may not change quickly while Trump remains in office for two more years. Austria’s Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger said Europe should build its own defence capacity and competitiveness rather than rely on American voting patterns.
Key points
- Zelenskyy sees Democratic gains in the US midterms as a possible path to more help for Ukraine.
- EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged Congress to keep backing Kyiv and apply more pressure on Russia.
- German officials differed on whether the election outcome could shift Trump’s approach.
- Zelenskyy reported detailed discussions with Witkoff and Jared Kushner as negotiations continue.