Putin’s Support Slips: Majority of Russians Call for Peace Talks

A clear majority say it’s time to sit down and negotiate with Ukraine.

Majority Fear NATO Showdown

According to a poll conducted by the Levada Center over half of Russians — 56% — now fear the war in Ukraine could spiral into a direct clash with NATO.

The strongest concerns come from middle-aged citizens and those in medium-sized cities, highlighting growing anxiety across the country.

Support for Nuclear War Crashes

Backing for nuclear strikes on Ukraine has also nosedived.

Only 24% of Russians still think it’s acceptable to use atomic weapons, compared to 39% in late 2024.

Two-thirds now oppose the idea altogether.

Peace Talks Are Gaining Ground

A clear majority — 64% — say it’s time to sit down and negotiate with Ukraine.

That’s the highest level of support for diplomacy in months, as more Russians grow tired of the war dragging on.

War Support Still Clings On

While peace talk support rises, 31% of Russians still favor continuing the war.

Men and residents of large cities like Moscow are more likely to back ongoing military efforts, though their numbers are slipping.

Women and Youth Lead Push for Peace

Women, young people, and small-town residents are the most supportive of ending the war through talks.

Their growing influence is shifting the public mood away from conflict and toward compromise.

Public Losing Interest in the War

Only 53% of Russians say they’re still actively following the Ukraine conflict, a noticeable drop from May.

The biggest drop-offs in engagement are among young people and women.

Is Putin Losing the Room?

The poll points to a turning tide in Russian society.

As fear of NATO grows, nuclear threats lose popularity, and peace support rises, even the Kremlin may struggle to ignore the public’s changing mood.