More than half of Ukrainians say they are ready to protest if the authorities in Kiev accept concessions considered unacceptable in negotiations with Moscow, according to an Info Sapiens survey for the New Europe Center. However, just over 40% are more determined against territorial concessions.
The survey, conducted from November 5-26 on a sample of 1,000 adults, shows that 51.4% of Ukrainians would be willing to take to the streets to protest if the authorities made „unthinkable” concessions for the country.
On the other hand, 44.3% of respondents say they would not protest, while 4.4% are undecided.
Not willing to make territorial concessions
The study also tracks the evolution of opinions regarding possible territorial concessions in negotiations with Russia.
Regarding the temporary relinquishment of territories occupied by Russia, a proposal floated by Donald Trump, 40.2% of Ukrainians oppose it, compared to 53.2% a year ago. In 2023, 76.2% of Ukrainians – 36% more than in 2025 – categorically rejected this measure.
The cession by Kiev of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions was part of the initial peace plan proposed by the United States to end the war.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also stated that he would stop hostilities "if the Ukrainian army withdraws from the territories claimed by Russia." Only 5.1% of Ukrainians consider this concession fully acceptable.
Support for strengthening the army
Regarding international orientation, 41.1% of Ukrainians consider Ukraine's non-adherence to NATO unacceptable. However, the percentage is decreasing compared to 2023 when 56.9% opposed giving up the aspiration for membership.
Support for maintaining and strengthening the army has increased: more and more citizens reject the reduction of the Ukrainian armed forces' personnel – 77.9% this year, compared to 74.5% in 2024.
Both Moscow and Kiev stated on Wednesday their willingness to continue negotiations on the conflict in Ukraine, a day after the meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and American envoy Steve Witkoff. However, European leaders have noted that Putin has once again shown that he is not truly seeking peace.