World leaders react to Trump's midterm defeat

Democrats won control of both the US House and Senate in the midterm elections, a major setback for President Donald Trump that world leaders interpreted as voter rejection of his policies, particularly on Iran. Several leaders welcomed the outcome, with Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez framing it as a vote against hate and climate denialism, while South Africa's Cyril Ramaphosa predicted a new era in world relations. Iran's Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei dismissed hopes of US policy change, and Russia expressed hope Trump would continue peace efforts. China called for constructive strategic ties with Washington, while the UK, Greece, and Taiwan pledged to maintain strong bilateral relations regardless of results. European officials suggested the outcome could benefit Ukraine support and climate action, though Norway noted it signaled a course change among American voters.