Donald Trump has suffered a major political setback, with Democrats flipping both the House of Representatives and the Senate in the November 3 midterm elections. From January 3, 2027, Democrats will control congressional committees, legislative priorities and government spending. They can block legislation, stall presidential appointments and launch investigations into the Trump administration.

But the new Congress will not take office until January. Until then, Republicans retain control of both chambers, giving Trump a two-month window to push through key priorities.

On the domestic front, Trump can fast-track judicial and executive appointments, issue executive orders, finalise regulatory changes and push through pending budget measures. He can also use presidential authority to advance policies on tariffs, immigration and border security.

Foreign policy, however, is where Trump has considerably more room to manoeuvre. As commander-in-chief, he retains substantial authority over military operations, diplomatic engagement and sanctions.

Russia-Ukraine: Trump could push for a ceasefire or negotiated settlement through direct engagement with Moscow and Kyiv. He could also freeze military aid to Ukraine, alter intelligence-sharing arrangements or offer sanctions relief to encourage negotiations.

Israel-Gaza: He could accelerate weapons transfers to Israel, revise military assistance and pressure Qatar, Egypt and Saudi Arabia to agree on a post-war framework for Gaza.

US-Iran war: Trump retains the authority to order military strikes, change America's military posture or pursue negotiations with Tehran. A ceasefire or executive agreement covering maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz could also be on the agenda.

Pakistan: General Asim Munir's military establishment could face increased scrutiny. Its business and defence-linked dealings with Trump-associated ventures could become subjects of congressional investigations once Democrats take control.

India: New Delhi will be watching developments on the proposed bilateral trade agreement, tariffs, Russian crude imports and defence cooperation. Trump could use executive powers to offer tariff concessions, advance energy deals and accelerate defence technology transfers. Immigration rules affecting Indian professionals could also become a bargaining lever.

For Trump, these two months offer an opportunity to shape America's domestic and international agenda before congressional opposition takes hold. Whether he uses this window to secure lasting agreements or pursue more unilateral action remains to be seen.

Deepak Bhadana

Over the past decade, Deepak Bhadana has built expertise in multimedia storytelling, with a focus on military conflicts, insurgencies, international relations, the defence industry, and occasionally, wildlife and environmental issues.