Shifting Sentiments on Ukraine’s War with Russia
Harry Enten, CNN’s chief data analyst, shared on Monday that he has significantly reassessed his views regarding how Ukrainians wish to conclude the conflict with Russia. Recent Gallup polling indicated that 69% of Ukrainians prefer “to end the war negotiations as soon as possible,” whereas only 24% support “continuing to fight until victory.” At the onset of the war, Enten noted, public opinion was largely against continuing the conflict.
Enten mentioned in “CNN News Central” that there have been major shifts in public sentiment. “The notion that Ukraine seeks a total victory has faded among the people,” he pointed out. He suggested that the current sentiment reflects a stark change compared to early 2022, stating, “It’s a complete flip.” Now, the overwhelming majority advocates for negotiation rather than prolonged fighting, which marks a significant 49-point drop in that mindset.
When host John Berman inquired about the causes of this shift, Enten reflected on the prevailing perception that the war might not end swiftly. Only 25% believe it could conclude within a year, while a striking 68% deem that unlikely. “This aligns with the 69% who want to negotiate for a swift end to the conflict,” he noted.
Former President Donald Trump has frequently called for peace between Ukraine and Russia, claiming he could help end the war should he return to office in 2024. He suggested that the conflict could be resolved if Ukraine were to renounce its aspirations for NATO membership and agree to the terms surrounding Crimea, which Russia annexed in 2014. Trump’s statements imply a possible diplomatic framework involving both Ukrainian President Zelensky and European leaders, along with Putin.
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump remarked, “Zelensky can almost immediately end the war if he desires.” He referenced historical conditions under which Russia might be amenable to negotiations, hinting at past arrangements concerning Crimea and NATO aspirations.
Putin has consistently maintained that Ukraine’s NATO membership is unacceptable from Russia’s perspective.
