64% EU population supports military aid to Ukraine – Eurobarometer

This is stated in the Eurobarometer sociological study, published on Monday, July 10, reports DW. 

Among the actions taken by the European Union regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the least popular one is funding the purchase and delivery of weapons to Kyiv. However, it still receives significant support, with an average of 64% of citizens agreeing with this policy towards the EU.

Opinions on this matter vary greatly among residents of different EU countries. Bulgaria (30%), Cyprus (36%), and Slovakia (37%) support providing arms to Ukraine using European funds. The highest levels of support come from Sweden (93%), Portugal (90%), Finland, and Denmark (89%). Germany's support level is slightly lower than the average at 62%.

The most supported measure by EU citizens in response to the Russian aggression in Ukraine is providing humanitarian aid to those affected by the war, with 88% in agreement. 86% support accepting refugees, and 75% are in favor of offering financial assistance to Ukraine.

Punitive measures against Russia are somewhat less popular. Economic sanctions receive support from 72% of the EU population, while the ban on broadcasting Russian state media like Sputnik and RT within the EU is backed by 66%.

The Eurobarometer survey took place between May and June 2023. Compared to the previous data from January to February, support for EU measures in this area has slightly decreased by around 2% across six points.

Furthermore, 82% of respondents believe that the European Union should decrease its reliance on Russian energy sources as soon as possible. In winter, this policy was supported by 84% of the participants.

Overall, 56% of the respondents expressed satisfaction with the EU's response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, while 54% were satisfied with their country's government reaction. The specific details were not provided.

A total of 26,425 European Union citizens took part in the Eurobarometer survey, conducted from May 31 to June 21 in 27 EU countries. This study is used by the European Commission, the European Parliament, and other EU institutions to gauge public opinion on EU-related issues and attitudes towards political and social topics. The project has been ongoing since 1974.