A new public opinion survey shows that a significant portion of Ukraine’s population categorically rejects the idea of territorial concessions to Russia in exchange for security guarantees and an end to the war. These findings confirm the consistent and resilient stance of Ukrainian society amid nearly four years of conflict with Moscow.

According to the results of a survey conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) between 9 and 14 January 2026:

• 54% of respondents are “categorically opposed” to withdrawing troops from parts of the Donetsk region even in exchange for security guarantees from the United States and Europe;
• Only about 39% would agree to such a step, and only “reluctantly”;
• Approximately 70% of Ukrainians believe that the current negotiations are unlikely to lead to a lasting peace;
• Nearly 57% are convinced that Russia would resume its offensive even if a temporary ceasefire were reached, despite security guarantees.

The data point to growing distrust toward international security guarantees and peace initiatives proposed by Western partners. Many respondents fear that such promises may not be fulfilled and express concern about the risk of renewed Russian aggression.

The results of this week’s survey form part of a long-term trend: since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, Ukrainians have increasingly opposed serious territorial concessions. Similar polls conducted at the end of 2025 showed that more than half of the population rejected any territorial concessions even for the sake of peace, while around two-thirds were prepared to support a freezing of the conflict.

Another wave of surveys revealed broad public support for continued armed resistance: about 77% of Ukrainians believe the country is capable of effectively resisting Russian aggression, and more than two-thirds are convinced that Moscow seeks to destroy the Ukrainian nation rather than merely seize individual territories.

On the international stage, approaches to peace initiatives remain divided. The European Union and the United States continue to search for ways to end the conflict, including discussions of a peace plan involving security guarantees and the possible neutral status of Ukraine. However, these proposals have sparked disagreements both within Ukrainian society and among Western allies.

At the same time, Russia is actively using global platforms to promote the idea of direct dialogue with individual European countries, emphasizing the need for a “realistic” settlement of the conflict – an approach that has raised concerns in Kyiv and among its partners.

Overall, the position of Ukrainian society remains firm: the majority of the population supports preserving territorial integrity, rejects any concessions, and refuses to recognize occupied territories as part of Russia. Despite war fatigue and the difficult situation on the front line, public opinion is not inclined toward compromises that could jeopardize Ukraine’s independence.

#UKRAINE

17.01.2026 07:54