International reactions poured in on Wednesday after Democrats' sweeping victories in the US midterm elections, with leaders across several continents weighing the implications for President Donald Trump and America's role in the world.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said US voters had rejected policies promoting “hatred, sexism and climate change denial”, arguing that the far-right political wave was losing momentum.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the results could usher in a “new era in world relations”, as his government faces growing trade tensions with Washington.
European leaders see setback for Trump
Sanchez said the election results reflected opposition to policies that impoverish ordinary people and benefit privileged elites.
“The far-right wave that Feijoo and Abascal are trying to jump on is no longer growing: it is crumbling,” he wrote on X, referring to Spanish opposition leader Alberto Nunez Feijoo and far-right Vox leader Santiago Abascal.
French Economy Minister Roland Lescure described the Democratic gains as “undeniable” and said Trump would be left in a weakened position on domestic policy.
Raphael Glucksmann, French social-democratic politician, called the results a “victory of democracy and decency”, but warned that Trump retained significant influence over international affairs.
Iran says voters rejected war
In Tehran, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said American voters had sent a message against war.
“Whether out of conscience or the cost of living, Americans said NO TO WAR, and we endorse this message,” he wrote on X.
Deputy Parliament Speaker Ali Nikzad described the Republican setback as a consequence of what he called Washington's failure to pressure Iran through sanctions and economic measures.
China calls for cooperation, Japan stresses alliance
China called for a “constructive strategic relationship” with Washington, describing the election as an internal US matter.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Beijing was ready to strengthen communication, manage differences and expand cooperation with the United States on the basis of mutual respect and equality.
Japan, meanwhile, stressed that its alliance with Washington remained essential regardless of the election outcome.
Government spokesperson Minoru Kihara said the partnership was vital for global peace and stability, while Tokyo would closely monitor financial markets as the results emerged.
South Africa seeks to protect trade ties
South Africa’s Ramaphosa said the election could reshape international relations, but acknowledged that recent US trade measures posed challenges for his country.
Washington has moved to end Pretoria's duty-free access under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, following earlier cuts to financial assistance and diplomatic tensions.
Ramaphosa said South Africa would continue trade relations with the US while seeking new export markets and diversifying its economic partnerships.
