'Democrats clearly back Ukraine': Zelenskyy hopes US midterm results will bring more aid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed hope that the Democrats' gains in the US midterm elections will translate into increased military and financial assistance for Kyiv as it continues its war against Russia.In an interview with Germany's ZDF television on Wednesday, Zelenskyy said a shift in the balance of power in the US Congress, with Democrats taking control of both chambers next year, could work in Ukraine's favour."I am also grateful to the Republicans, but the Democrats speak very clearly about supporting Ukraine and providing assistance to Ukraine," Zelensky said.He added that Democrats had also spoken about rebuilding ties between the United States and Europe, raising hopes of stronger Western support for Kyiv."They speak about renewing the connection between the United States and Europe... Therefore, there is hope that a balance of power will emerge and that we will receive more support," he said.Zelensky said increased US military assistance and financial backing could also put pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin, as per Reuters."If Congress now speaks of strong financial support or military assistance, as Europe is doing and demonstrating today, then that will be something positive that will have an impact on Putin."US-Ukraine ties and fresh peace talksZelenskyy has sought to repair ties with US President Donald Trump following a strained relationship. Trump has made several recent moves seen as favourable to Moscow, including a deal to import Russian diesel and ease sanctions.Meanwhile, US-led trilateral talks involving Ukraine and Russia are expected to resume next week after a gap of several months. US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff said Washington would bring delegations from both countries to Abu Dhabi on November 10-11 to discuss ending the war, post-war security arrangements and de-escalation.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.