Nearly 80% Of Ukrainians Endorse EU and NATO Membership, Poll Finds

Wednesday, 29 November 2023

A total of 78% of surveyed citizens of Ukraine are ready to vote to join the European Union, and 77% would vote for NATO membership if a referendum was held.

The results of the nationwide survey Dynamics of the Attitude of Ukrainians to International Unions, conducted by the Rating sociological group on 22-23 November, shows that only 5% of respondents oppose joining the EU and NATO. At the same time, in July, Ukraine's membership in the European Union and the North Atlantic Alliance was supported by more respondents – 85% and 83%, respectively.

The idea of Ukraine joining NATO within the limits of only those territories controlled by the Ukrainian government is considered unacceptable by more than half of the respondents – 53%. 40% of respondents completely or partially support this idea.

The study shows that residents of the western regions and the capital and middle-aged people are more likely to take such a step. The poll indicates that residents of the country's east, centre and south, as well as the oldest respondents, support this idea the least.

Advertisement:

Among the supporters of Ukraine's accession to NATO, only 44% support the idea of Ukraine's accession to the Alliance within the borders of only those territories controlled by the government, while 51% stand against it.

The survey shows that the share of those who haven't made up their minds or would not like to vote in the referendum for joining the EU if it was held has increased: to 3% and 14%, respectively.

In a report published on 8 November, the European Commission recommended starting accession negotiations with Kyiv, but before that, Ukraine must complete some of the reforms that still need to be implemented. The Ukrainian government speaks of Ukraine's high level of readiness for accession and promises to complete the negotiations in two years.

At the summit of EU leaders in December, a decision will be considered on whether to start accession negotiations with Ukraine. Currently, the green light may be hindered by Hungary, which promises to block a positive decision for Kyiv.

On 29 November, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said that Ukraine presented and agreed with its allies on a programme to meet the Alliance’s requirements.

The Ukrainian Minister of Foreign Affairs denied the stalemate at the front and insisted that there is no alternative to Ukraine regaining control over its entire territory.

If you notice an error, select the required text and press Ctrl + Enter to report it to the editors.
Advertisement: