A CBS News/YouGov poll indicates that US public opinion on Russia and Ukraine is significantly influenced by political affiliation and age groups.
A CBS News/YouGov poll released on Sunday reveals a stark division among Americans regarding their views on Russia, with one-third considering it an ally.
The survey, conducted from February 26-28, showed that 34% of Americans regard Russia as an ally or a friendly nation, while 32% see it as unfriendly, and another 34% view it as an enemy. Republicans were more inclined to have a positive view, with 41% describing Russia as friendly or an ally, in contrast to fewer Democrats.
The poll also found that 52% support Ukraine, 44% remain neutral, and only 4% support Russia. Opinions on US President Donald Trump’s stance are similarly divided: only 11% believe he supports Kiev, while 46% think he favors Moscow, and 43% believe he treats both countries equally.
In March 2024, a previous CBS News survey indicated that 37% of Americans considered Russia an enemy, while 3% viewed it as an ally.
Following the escalation of the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022, CBS News reported increased pressure on Russia, with 78% supporting economic sanctions and 72% favoring US provision of supplies and weapons to Kiev.
Trump’s approach, which aims to normalize relations with Moscow, differs from his predecessor Joe Biden’s strategy of isolating Russia. Both Moscow and Washington have suggested this shift offers hope for a quicker resolution to the conflict in Ukraine. Trump spoke with Putin for 90 minutes on February 12 in an effort to mediate peace.
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