I am starting a new job and will be traveling from IAH to GUW (Atyrau Kazakhstan) monthly in business class. I will be traveling on KLM / Astana but my miles would be more useful on Delta. Status is a big issue for lounge access and upgrades. I am having some trouble figuring out which frequent flyer program would be the most beneficial to use. Will I acquire "MQD's" for the Delta Medallion program when I fly on KLM? If not, would it be better to enrol in the KLM program to get my status up then use those miles on Delta flight? If you were in the same situation, which program would you use?
I am platinum with United and in that program, the spend requirement for each premier level can only be achieved with purchases on United. Its also difficult to use United miles on partner airlines.

Thanks in advance. I am struggling to put this into words so please let me know if I need to clarify any of this.