According to a Rating Group opinion poll, 73% of Ukrainians believe that the Ukrainian Defence Forces defend not only their own country but also Europe as a whole from Russian aggression. Only 23% of respondents are convinced that the Armed Forces of Ukraine defend only the people of Ukraine.
The poll shows a high level of awareness of Ukraine's global role in deterring Russia and support for the idea of collective security in Europe.
How Ukrainians assess the role of the Armed Forces
According to the survey, the vast majority of citizens view the war not only as a struggle for Ukraine's independence, but as part of a broader confrontation between democratic Europe and Russian aggression.
Survey results:
| Answer. | Share |
|---|---|
| The Armed Forces of Ukraine defend the people of Ukraine and Europe as a whole | 73% |
| Only the people of Ukraine | 23% |
| Hard to answer | 2% |
| Other | 2% |
Ukrainians are ready to support the defence of other European countries
Sociologists also asked respondents about the possible participation of the Ukrainian military in the defence of other states in the event of an expansion of Russian aggression.
Most respondents would support assistance to the Baltic States, Moldova, Finland and Poland.
Support for the participation of the Armed Forces in the defence of other countries:
| Country. | Fully or somewhat support |
|---|---|
| Lithuania | 63% |
| Latvia | 62% |
| Estonia | 61% |
| Moldova | 60% |
| Finland | 59% |
| Poland | 58% |
What this survey shows
The results of the survey show a change in public perception of the war in Ukraine. More and more Ukrainians see the fight against Russia as part of a broader European security system.
Sociologists note that the high level of support for the allies demonstrates an awareness of the interdependence of the security of Ukraine and European countries against the backdrop of ongoing Russian aggression.
The research was conducted by the Rating Group in April 2026.
Source: Rating Group
