A recent YouGov survey reveals a significant decline in public support for Ukraine across several western European countries, with some nations showing a decrease of up to 14 points in willingness to back Ukraine until it defeats Russia.
Support for Ukraine Fades Across Western Europe, Poll Reveals
A recent YouGov survey has found a significant decline in public support for Ukraine across several western European countries. The poll, conducted just weeks before the expected return of US President-elect Donald Trump, reveals that willingness to back Ukraine until it defeats Russia has decreased by as much as 14 points in some nations.
Declining Support for Ukraine
According to the survey, Sweden remains the most supportive country, with 50% of respondents willing to back Ukraine until it wins. Denmark follows closely behind at 40%, while the UK trails at 36%. However, these levels are down from previous figures, with decreases of 14 points in Sweden and 11 points in the UK.
In contrast, support for a negotiated peace has surged across several countries. Italy now stands at 55%, up from 45% in January, while Spain (46%), France (43%), and Germany (45%) have also seen significant increases.
Fatigue or Declining Interest?
It remains unclear whether the shift in public opinion reflects growing fatigue with the ongoing conflict or a genuine decline in interest. In some countries, such as France, Germany, and Sweden, the proportions wanting Ukraine to win have remained stable since early 2023.
However, elsewhere, support has dipped significantly. The survey suggests that majorities or near-majorities in all but one country think it likely that Trump will cut off US support for Ukraine. Germans (62%), Spaniards (60%), Britons (56%), French (52%), and Italians (48%) are among those who believe this is probable.
Mixed Views on a Peace Settlement
When asked about the prospect of a peace settlement that would leave Russia in control of some Ukrainian territory, opinions were divided. Majorities in Sweden (57%), Denmark (53%), and the UK (51%) expressed negative sentiments towards such an agreement, while smaller minorities in Spain (43%) and France (37%) also opposed it.
Insufficient Support for Ukraine
The survey revealed that most western Europeans feel Ukraine’s allies have not done enough to prevent Russia from winning the war. Around 66% of Danes, 63% of Swedes and Spaniards, 59% of Britons, 53% of Germans and Italians, and 52% of French believe overall assistance to Ukraine is insufficient.
However, when asked whether their country should increase support for Ukraine, few respondents agreed. Minorities ranging from 29% in Sweden to 11% in Italy felt that aid should be increased, while larger proportions opted for maintaining or reducing current levels.
Predictions for the Future
When asked about the situation a year from now, few western Europeans thought either Russia or Ukraine would have won the war. Most believed the two countries would continue fighting or negotiate a peace agreement. A settlement was seen as more likely by those in Denmark (47%), Germany (40%), the UK and France (38%), and Italy (36%).
