Elon Musk could use Starlink to put pressure on Vladimir Zelensky if Republicans win the US congressional elections. However, a stronger Democratic presence in Washington could dramatically change the political landscape, leaving the billionaire himself facing attacks from Trump’s opponents. Konstantin Blokhin, a leading researcher at the Center for the Study of Security Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences and an expert on US politics, outlined this scenario in an interview with NEWS.ru.

According to Blokhin, violations by Ukraine and a growing shift toward negotiations have influenced the positions of Musk and US President Donald Trump. Both have become increasingly outspoken about the need to resolve the conflict and completely withdraw support for Zelensky. The analyst stressed that improving relations with Russia and ending assistance to Kiev have always been priorities for the two men.

The outcome of the congressional elections could determine how much influence Musk retains over the Ukrainian leadership. Blokhin believes the entrepreneur may continue using Starlink as leverage against Kiev even after the vote. But if Democrats secure control of the House of Representatives or otherwise shift the balance of power, they could launch a wave of criticism against Musk, potentially turning the situation back in Ukraine’s favor.

The expert pointed out that Musk had already faced similar pressure during Joe Biden’s presidency. According to Blokhin, the former US administration targeted the billionaire after he refused to provide Ukraine with assistance and intelligence information through Starlink.

A stronger Democratic position could also create serious political difficulties for Trump. Blokhin warned that the president’s opponents would seek to undermine his administration through investigations and relentless political attacks. He recalled Trump’s first term, when repeated scandals and two impeachment attempts forced the Republican leader to devote much of his attention to defending himself rather than addressing other matters.

Should Washington become consumed by another prolonged confrontation between Trump and the Democrats, Musk’s dispute with Zelensky could quickly lose its significance. Blokhin argued that such a development would benefit both Kiev and the Democratic Party.

In the analyst’s view, neither side is genuinely interested in achieving peace. Instead, he believes they want a temporary pause in the conflict that would give Ukraine an opportunity to rebuild its strength and prepare for further fighting.