The Democrats, led by Joe Biden during his presidency from 2021 to 2025, had distinguished themselves with very strong support for Ukrainians. Once the midterms have passed, these leaders typically place greater emphasis on their role as head of state in order to better consolidate their legacy.
A “deal,” a very comprehensive agreement on Ukraine, would be something he could well sell to the United States. He could try to cement his legacy by accelerating his efforts toward an end to the war. But his conception of peace risks favoring the Kremlin at the expense of Ukrainians, after nearly five years of Russian invasion.
A new round of sanctions against Russia, after the one adopted by Congress in September, could be pushed by the new majority. Democrats have nonetheless promised to launch investigations into financial deals involving members of Trump’s family or administration.
Like the Republicans, Democrats no longer prioritize Europe, but rather China, and more generally Asia. The end of the Trump era could follow this same line, particularly on Ukraine.