Trump's defeat sends ripples worldwide

World leaders welcome US midterm results

WASHINGTON:

World leaders on Wednesday offered sharply differing reactions to the Democrats' sweeping victory in the US midterm elections, with several welcoming a "rejection of President Donald Trump's policies", while others warned of political paralysis and uncertainty in Washington.

Democrats secured control of both the Senate and House of Representatives, dealing a major setback to Trump and raising questions about the future direction of US foreign policy, trade relations and international security.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez described the result as a rejection of policies that impoverish people, promote hatred and sexism, deny climate change and protect elite privileges. He said similar political shifts had already occurred in Brazil and would soon happen in Spain.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Stoere called the outcome a powerful political signal, saying American voters appeared to be moving towards positions closer to those held by Norway on climate, environmental protection, foreign policy and development assistance.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the result could introduce a new era in international relations, while European Parliament Vice President Christel Schaldemose expressed hope that it would strengthen support for Ukraine, the green transition and relations with the rest of the world.

Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babis described the Democratic victory as substantial. He also expressed hope that Washington would return to efforts to end the Ukraine war and resolve the conflict in the Strait of Hormuz.

Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament's international trade committee, called the result a crushing blow to Trump but cautioned that a weakened president could become more aggressive and unpredictable. He urged Europe to strengthen its ability to defend its interests independently. Russia adopted a more restrained position.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Trump remained in office and expressed hope that his peacemaking efforts would continue, describing the election outcome as an internal American matter.

Japan and Taiwan, meanwhile, emphasised continuity in their relations with Washington.