In Europe, there is skepticism about Ukraine’s victory, and many believe the war could last another five years – survey

Europeans are skeptical about Ukraine’s victory in the war.

This information reported according to Politico, citing a recent survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) conducted in 14 EU countries.

Between a third and half of those surveyed believe the war will end with a peaceful settlement. Estonia has the highest belief in a Ukrainian victory (38%), while Greece has the highest belief in a Russian victory (31%).

In Ukraine, 58% of citizens believe in the possibility of victory, while 30% believe in diplomacy.

Support for sending their own troops to Ukraine ranges from 4% to 22% among residents of European countries. Most Europeans also oppose increasing defense spending for Ukraine, with exceptions being Poland (53% in favor), Estonia (45%), Sweden (41%), and Germany (40%).

However, the majority of Europeans support sending weapons and technical assistance to Ukraine, except in Bulgaria, Greece, and Italy.

Regarding the duration of the war, according to the ECFR survey in May, most European countries believe the war could last up to five more years. In contrast, the largest portion of respondents in Ukraine (35%) believe it will end within a year, and another 33% believe it will end within five years. This reflects the desire of Ukrainians for the war to end as soon as possible.

Additionally, in the largest EU economies, there are more opponents than supporters of Ukraine joining the European Union. In Germany (54% against, 31% for), France (40% against, 36% for), and Italy (38% against, 37% for), opposition outweighs support. Greece, the Czech Republic, and Bulgaria also primarily oppose Ukraine’s EU membership.

On the other hand, Ukraine’s membership is supported by Portugal, Estonia, Sweden, Spain, Poland, and the Netherlands.

Earlier surveys indicated that in most countries worldwide, more people distrust President Zelensky than trust him, with Hungary and Greece leading in distrust.

Additionally, a recent poll showed that the number of Ukrainians favoring ending the war through compromises with Russia is growing. 58% of respondents said the Ukrainian government should not compromise in negotiations with Russia and should continue fighting as long as possible, down from 80% in May 2022.