Zelenskyy hopes US election results will increase aid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed hope that the gains made by Democrats in the United States midterm elections will bring more assistance to Ukraine in its 4 1/2 year long war with Russia.

In an interview with Germany's ZDF television, Zelenskyy stated that if Democrats gain control of both houses of Congress next year, the resulting changes would be to Kyiv's advantage. He added, "I am also grateful to the Republicans, but the Democrats speak very clearly about supporting Ukraine and providing assistance."

In his statement to ZDF, Zelenskyy said that Democrats talk about restoring the connection between the United States and Europe. Therefore, there is hope that a balance of power will emerge and Ukraine will receive more support. He expressed confidence that additional aid from America could impact Russian President Vladimir Putin.

He further stated that if Congress currently discusses strong financial support or military aid, in the manner Europe is doing and demonstrating today, it would be a positive development that would affect Putin.

On the other hand, Zelenskyy has made significant efforts to improve the strained relationship with US President Donald Trump, particularly following a meeting in the Oval Office in February 2025, where the Ukrainian President was accused of being "ungrateful" for American aid.

Recently, Trump has taken some steps in favour of Russia, including deals to import Russian diesel and ease sanctions. However, US-led tripartite talks with Ukraine and Russia are set to resume next week after an interval of several months.

US Envoy Steve Witkoff stated on Monday that the United States will gather delegations from Ukraine and Russia in Abu Dhabi on November 10-11. The purpose of this meeting is to discuss ending the war against Ukraine, post-war security agreements, and the reduction of tensions.

In other comments published by ZDF, Zelenskyy expressed doubts regarding Elon Musk's perspectives on the war and the access to the Starlink satellite system of Musk's SpaceX company. He said, "We are grateful to SpaceX for providing connectivity. It was very helpful at the beginning of the war. But we must be clear on this: we certainly do not like their attitude towards this war."

Zelenskyy stated last week that Starlink and its military grid version Starshield, used for Ukraine's attack and air defence drone missions, have resumed operations at the level they were before limitations were introduced. On the other hand, Trump has denied his involvement in the decision to reduce this service. All these details have emerged according to a report by The Korea Herald.