76% of Ukrainians reject recognizing occupied territories as part of Russia — poll
Most citizens are not prepared to make territorial concessions even for the sake of peace
An overwhelming majority of Ukrainians firmly reject any recognition of Russia’s occupation of Ukrainian territories. According to a nationwide survey, 76% of respondents oppose territorial concessions, even if such steps were proposed as part of potential peace agreements brokered by international partners.
Source: Ilko Kucheriv Democratic Initiatives Foundation in cooperation with the Razumkov Centre (survey conducted December 5–16, 2025).
Territorial integrity remains a red line for society
The survey shows that only 13% of respondents would consider acceptable a scenario in which Ukraine formally recognizes occupied territories as part of the Russian Federation.
Sociologists note a stable and deeply rooted public consensus: sovereignty and territorial integrity are non-negotiable, even in exchange for a ceasefire or the promise of peace.
Ukrainians oppose reducing the size of the army
Public resistance is also strong regarding proposals to downsize Ukraine’s armed forces.
70% of respondents oppose reducing the Armed Forces of Ukraine to 600,000 personnel, while only about one in five would agree to such a condition. This reflects high public trust in the military as a core guarantor of national security.
Frozen Russian assets should rebuild Ukraine — not fund joint projects
Another widely rejected proposal concerns the use of frozen Russian assets.
61% of respondents oppose redirecting a significant share of these funds to joint U.S.–Russia projects, instead of using them to rebuild Ukrainian cities and communities devastated by the war.
NATO membership: no public consensus
The least rejected condition among those tested was Ukraine’s potential отказ from NATO membership.
While 35% of respondents said they could accept such a step, 51% opposed it, indicating that Ukrainian society has no clear consensus on this issue.
A moral and Christian perspective
From a Christian ethical standpoint, the survey reflects a strong societal commitment to just peace rather than symbolic peace. Ukrainians overwhelmingly reject legitimizing violence, occupation, and injustice.
This aligns with a core biblical principle: peace cannot be built on falsehood or coercion, and the dignity of a people is not a bargaining chip.
