Nearly half of Ukrainians oppose the withdrawal of troops or the surrender of territory as a condition for a ceasefire, though a segment of society remains open to compromises in exchange for peace or robust security guarantees. This is according to the results of the April 2026 survey, "Negotiating Track and Parameters of a Peace Agreement," conducted by the analytical portal Slovo i Delo and reported by Dengi.ua.
The online survey was conducted from April 25 to April 30, 2026, among 1,200 adult internet users across Ukraine (excluding temporarily occupied territories). The statistical margin of error does not exceed 2.89%.
The data shows that 48% of respondents consider the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from currently controlled territories for a truce to be unacceptable. Specifically, 31% find such a move "rather unacceptable," while 17% categorically reject any concessions until borders are restored to at least their February 2022 status.
While resistance remains high, 17% of respondents are willing to accept territorial concessions for an immediate end to the war. An additional 9% would consider this option only if it were coupled with rapid accession to both NATO and the European Union.
Public opinion is similarly split on the most realistic exit strategy for the war:
- "Freezing" the conflict: 28% support a ceasefire along the current front line, provided Western security guarantees are in place.
- Return to borders: 23% advocate for either a diplomatic return to 2022 borders or the full de-occupation of all territories within the 1991 borders.
- Peace at any cost: 17% prioritize ending hostilities on any terms to prevent further loss of life.
The survey noted a slight increase in support for exchanging territory for guaranteed NATO membership. While 60% still oppose this scenario, the number of those willing to accept the compromise has grown to 25%.
However, trust in international partners remains a significant hurdle. A vast majority of Ukrainians - 77% - doubt that the United States would fulfill its obligations in the event of renewed Russian aggression. Nearly half of the participants stated they "completely distrust" such guarantees.
Furthermore, perceptions are mixed regarding a possible trade-off where Ukraine renounces NATO membership in favor of EU entry and bilateral security alliances:
- 34.5% view this as a victory or an acceptable compromise.
- 33.5% remain neutral on the prospect.
- 12% would consider such an outcome a defeat.
The authors of the study conclude that while public sentiment remains largely stable, there is a gradual but noticeable trend toward a more pragmatic approach regarding security and the conclusion of the war.
