Amid continued conflict and uncertainty, a new survey from the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) reveals that 63% of Ukrainians are prepared to withstand the hardships of war for as long as it takes. The poll, conducted between September 20 and October 3, sampled 989 Ukrainians, excluding those in Russian-occupied areas and those who have fled abroad. The findings indicate a resilient national mindset, though there are signs of a gradual shift in sentiment as the conflict endures.
According to the KIIS survey, an additional 15% of Ukrainians said they would endure the war for a few more months, while 4% expressed willingness to tolerate it for six months, and 6% stated they could persevere for a year. Notably, 12% of respondents were unsure about their stance on how long they could endure the war. While support for enduring the conflict as long as needed remains high, it has dropped slightly from 73% in December 2023 and February 2024 to the current 63% in October 2024.
The survey also highlighted regional differences in attitudes toward the war. Ukrainians in the western and central regions expressed stronger support for prolonged resistance, demonstrating high levels of confidence and resolve. In contrast, a significant decrease in long-term resilience was observed among residents in the south and east, with willingness to endure the war for a year or more declining from 71% to 57% in the south, and from 73% to 48% in the east.
These findings come as Ukraine faces intensifying challenges, with Russian forces making advances in the eastern regions at a pace unseen in 2024. Additionally, as winter approaches, Ukraine braces for renewed attacks on its energy infrastructure, which could lead to power outages and further hardship. Compounding these issues is the looming uncertainty surrounding U.S. support, as the possibility of former President Donald Trump’s return to the White House in 2025 could impact allied backing for Ukraine.
Overall, the survey reflects a strong, though slightly wavering, commitment among Ukrainians to endure the war for their nation’s sovereignty. The majority remain determined despite the escalating obstacles, underscoring a resilience that has been the backbone of Ukraine’s response since the full-scale invasion began.
