EU public opinion on the EU response to the war in Ukraine

European public opinion, which has consistently supported the further development of a common EU security and defence policy in recent years, has also largely manifested solidarity for Ukraine (Figure 2). Eurobarometer polls carried out in the winter of 2022-2023, almost one year after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, indicate solid and continued support for Ukraine. Humanitarian aid enjoys most approval among EU citizens (91 %), followed by welcoming Ukrainian refugees (88 %). Some 77 % of European citizens approve of providing financial support to Ukraine, while imposing economic sanctions on Russia gains the support of 74 % of EU citizens polled and providing military support receives approval from 65 % of citizens. The polls also indicate high public backing for a common security and defence policy among EU Member States, with support for common EU action in the field of security and defence at 77 %.