In brief
Atlantic Council analyst Peter Dickinson says a Democratic majority in both chambers could also make a major Trump–Putin deal less likely.
Democratic control of both chambers of the US Congress could lead lawmakers to pursue greater support for Ukraine and sanctions against Russia, Atlantic Council analyst Peter Dickinson told LIGA.net in a report published on October 23.
Dickinson said that scenario could accelerate a political shift away from Donald Trump’s approach. He expected lawmakers to address issues involving Starlink communications, intelligence sharing and arms sales to Ukraine.
He also anticipated more active work on sanctions and a change in US rhetoric, making the prospect of a major deal between Trump and Vladimir Putin less likely in his assessment.
The congressional midterm elections are scheduled for November 3, 2026. Dickinson’s forecast depends on Democrats winning control of both the House of Representatives and the Senate.