Zelensky Sees Chance for More U.S. Aid After Democratic Midterm Gains

The Ukrainian president says stronger congressional support could influence Vladimir Putin, as Kyiv and Moscow trade attacks on strategic targets in the Black Sea region

A shift in the balance of power in Washington could open the way to greater American support for Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky said, pointing to Democratic backing for military assistance and closer ties between the United States and Europe after the midterm elections.

In an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Zelensky said he hoped the election results would translate into stronger support for Kyiv. He expressed gratitude to Republicans but argued that Democrats had been particularly explicit about their commitment to helping Ukraine.

“I am grateful to the Republicans as well, but the Democrats speak very clearly about supporting Ukraine, about providing aid to Ukraine,” he said. He also welcomed their calls to renew ties between Washington and European capitals, saying he hoped the new balance of power would bring additional assistance.

The stakes, Zelensky suggested, extend beyond the volume of weapons and financial resources reaching Ukraine. A stronger commitment from Congress could also affect the Kremlin’s calculations. If lawmakers back substantial financial and military aid, as European countries are doing, “this will be a positive development that will influence Putin,” he said.

The political outlook in Washington comes as the war continues to reach industrial and maritime targets far from the front lines. In Russia’s Ryazan region, a major oil refinery was reportedly hit by Ukrainian drones overnight, triggering fires at industrial facilities in the city.

Regional Governor Pavel Malkov confirmed that Ryazan had come under a large-scale drone attack. He reported fires at industrial sites and damage caused by falling drone debris across the region. Power lines were also damaged, leaving some parts of the city without electricity.

The attack disrupted civilian life as well. Windows at School No. 58 were shattered, prompting authorities to suspend classes for the day.

Videos circulating on social media appeared to show explosions and a large fire near the refinery, one of Russia’s largest oil-processing facilities. Footage shared by the Telegram channel Exilenova+ reportedly showed drones reaching the industrial area, Russian air defenses operating and a subsequent explosion lighting up the night sky. Other clips appeared to show flames and thick smoke rising from the site. The available footage did not independently establish the full extent of the damage.

Russia, meanwhile, said its forces had struck a merchant vessel carrying military equipment in the Black Sea. According to a statement from the Russian Defense Ministry, the ship was rammed about 52 kilometers (32 miles) southwest of Odesa. The ministry did not provide further details in the statement.

(Photo: © AndKronos)