What World Leaders Are Saying After Democrats Take Control of US Congress

World leaders have reacted to the US midterm election results, with several governments expressing hope for changes in Washington's foreign policy after President Donald Trump's Republican party lost control of both houses of Congress.

The Democratic Party secured majorities in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. The shift gives Democrats the authority to block administration legislation and delay presidential appointments.

European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas urged the incoming Congress to maintain assistance for Kyiv. She expressed hope that lawmakers would continue supporting Ukraine and increase pressure on Russia to end its war, noting that Europe and the United States are stronger when working together.

In Germany, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul suggested the new congressional dynamic could create momentum for diplomatic efforts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. He said the Democratic majorities would likely attempt to alter the direction of US foreign policy, opening space for fresh joint initiatives between Washington and Europe.

However, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed doubts about significant shifts in daily governance. Merz pointed out that Trump has largely governed through executive orders over the past two years, bypassing Congress, and predicted the president would maintain that approach.

In Moscow, the Kremlin focused on ongoing diplomatic channels. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted that Trump retains his presidential powers and said that Russia sincerely hopes he will continue his peacemaking efforts.

African leaders also weighed in on the implications of the vote. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that the outcome could help repair strained bilateral relations between Pretoria and Washington. He expressed hope for alignment on geopolitical issues, trade, and investment, framing the result as a potential turning point for global relations.

In Spain, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez framed the American election results through a domestic political lens. Speaking ahead of upcoming national elections, the socialist leader declared that the influence of the global far-right is unravelling, comparing the US midterm outcome to recent electoral developments in Brazil.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham focused on global economic pressures following the news. He noted that Trump had accepted the election results and called on international partners to focus jointly on resolving widespread cost-of-living challenges.