**Record Number of Russians Support Peace Talks and End to War in Ukraine**
A recent poll by the independent Russian pollster Levada Center has revealed a significant shift in public opinion regarding the war in Ukraine. According to the survey, conducted between May 22-28, a record-high 64% of respondents support peace talks and an end to the conflict.
This marks a 6% increase since March, with the number of people who supported continuing the war decreasing from 34% in March to 28% in May. Compared to previous survey results, the share of those supporting peaceful negotiations has increased significantly – from 48% in May 2023 to 43% in May 2024.
The news comes as Ukraine and Russia held their second round of direct peace talks in Istanbul earlier this month. While no agreement on a ceasefire was reached, both parties agreed on a new prisoner exchange and the repatriation of 6,000 bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers.
**Who Supports Peace Talks?**
Interestingly, support for peace talks is higher among certain demographics. Women (73%) and people under 24 (77%) are more likely to favor negotiations, as well as residents of villages and towns with populations under 100,000 (67% each). Additionally, those who believe that the country is going in the wrong direction (76%) and those who disapprove of President Putin’s presidential performance (77%) also show a higher level of support for peace talks.
**Who Favors Continuing the War?**
On the other hand, men (39%), respondents aged 55 and older (35%), and residents of Moscow (40%) are more likely to support continuing the war. Those who believe that things in the country are going in the right direction (32%) and those who approve of President Putin’s activities (30%) also show a higher level of support for the ongoing conflict.
**Root Causes of Hostilities**
A majority of respondents (73%) believe that Russia and Ukraine should address the hostilities’ root causes before agreeing on a ceasefire. This indicates a growing recognition among Russians that the war cannot be resolved without addressing underlying issues.
**Blame Game**
Interestingly, only 3% of Russians believe that their country is an obstacle to peace. However, 14% see the U.S. as a major obstacle, while 36% each blame Ukraine and European countries for hindering negotiations.
The Levada Center’s survey involved 1,613 people aged 18 and older in 50 regions of Russia. This shift in public opinion is significant, especially given the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
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