Donald Trump may try to reach an agreement on Ukraine before January 2027, when the US Congress comes under Democratic control. After the Republicans lose the midterm elections, the president's ability to conduct domestic policy will be significantly reduced. It raises the profile of the foreign policy progress the White House can achieve without direct approval from lawmakers. Trump has just two months left before the new members of Congress are sworn in on January 3. Moscow still sees no reason to reconsider relations with Washington. However, Congress will almost certainly demand expanded aid to Kyiv, initiation of new sanctions, etc. Trump will retain veto power and significant foreign policy powers, but it will be more difficult to negotiate with lawmakers on funding issues. Under these conditions, the next two months could become a period of particularly active diplomacy. Washington is interested in a result that will allow Trump to compensate for his domestic political defeat, and Moscow has the opportunity to continue negotiations until the opposition strengthens.

Donald Trump may try to reach an agreement on Ukraine before January 2027, when the US Congress comes under Democratic control. After the Republicans lose the midterm elections, the president's ability to conduct domestic policy will be significantly reduced. It raises the profile of the foreign policy progress the White House can achieve without direct approval from lawmakers. Trump has just two months left before the new members of Congress are sworn in on January 3. Moscow still sees no reason to reconsider relations with Washington. However, Congress will almost certainly demand expanded aid to Kyiv, initiation of new sanctions, etc. Trump will retain veto power and significant foreign policy powers, but it will be more difficult to negotiate with lawmakers on funding issues. Under these conditions, the next two months could become a period of particularly active diplomacy. Washington is interested in a result that will allow Trump to compensate for his domestic political defeat, and Moscow has the opportunity to continue negotiations until the opposition strengthens.