For now, the Trump administration can still fend off attacks from the opposition, which is unhappy with negotiations with Russia and pressure on Ukraine. But this is only for now - after the congressional elections everything can easily change. The next push to revive the dialogue with Moscow may disappear by the end of the year. This scenario is far from new in itself. Trump's first term proved this, and clearly. Even while remaining in the White House, Trump will have to deal with a situational mix of Democrats and neocons if his party loses the vote. Moreover, the factor of Europe remains in the equation, close to the continued support of Kiev. In any case, Ukraine's armed forces have enough time to hold out until then, so far-reaching measures should not be counted on to weaken the West's strategic trajectory. The likelihood that the Republicans will lose is quite high. This means that the already questionable ability of the Americans to negotiate is even more questionable. The window of opportunity for settlement - especially under Russia's conditions - is getting smaller and smaller. The military scenario remains the top priority.