More than half of Russians believe theongoing war in Ukraine has negatively affected their daily lives, according to a new survey by the independent research project Chronicles. The poll, conducted in February 2025, revealed some sobering statistics about the state of public sentiment. A staggering 54% of respondents reported adverse effects from the conflict, with only 9% indicating it had improved their lives. Meanwhile, 32% said they had not noticed any significant impact.
The findings highlight growing public dissatisfaction with the economic and social consequences of the war, now entering its third year. Economic hardship has emerged as a key factor shaping public sentiment. The survey noted a significant rise in the number of people stating their financial situation has worsened—36%, up from 27% recorded just months earlier, in September 2024. Among those employed, 40% stated they have had to work longer hours to make ends meet, as costs continue to rise and inflation takes its toll.
Rising inflation is compounding financial struggles, making it increasingly challenging for many Russians to maintain their standard of living. With the costs of war mounting, there has been a noticeable decline in support for military spending as the government’s primary budget priority. The proportion of respondents who believe defense should be prioritized fell from 43% to 36% between September 2024 and February 2025. Conversely, those prioritizing social spending rose significantly from 38% to 48%, underscoring shifting attitudes amid deepening economic difficulties.
Despite these concerns, Russian society remains sharply divided over the war itself. The poll found 52% of respondents still support the invasion, illustrating the complex nature of public opinion. Yet, almost as many individuals, 48%, express opposition. A key area of contention remains whether Russian forces should withdraw from Ukraine without achieving the government's stated objectives. Interestingly, support for withdrawal has decreased over time, down to 41% from 50% just five months earlier.
Researchers suggest this decline is linked to recent battlefield developments, where Russian forces have made small territorial gains. These minor victories may reinforce the belief among some citizens of inevitable success, thereby reducing pressure for any negotiated settlement. The public’s views on the resolution of the conflict are also markedly polarized.
When asked about the best course of action, 26% of respondents advocate for escalation, which could include mobilization or other aggressive military measures. On the other side, about 23% support de-escalation through diplomatic means, such as negotiating troop withdrawals or reaching agreements with Western leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump. The remaining respondents—29%—remain uncertain, and 17% believe the current situation should remain unchanged.
Perceptions of external influence play a significant role in shaping future expectations about the war’s resolution. Many respondents who see the conflict’s outcome as depending heavily on international figures, such as President Trump or Chinese President Xi Jinping, were more optimistic about reaching a resolution soon. Nevertheless, Russian President Vladimir Putin continues to dominate discussions on how the war might conclude.
These survey outcomes signify not just the immediate ramifications of the war on Russian citizens' lives but also the longer-term influences shaping public opinion amid protracted conflict. Gregory Tikhomirov, who specializes in sociopolitical trends, notes, "The implication of these survey results stretches beyond immediate financial concerns; they show how the war's narrative is shifting among the populace.” The war's enduring presence looms over daily life, where ordinary Russians grapple with the consequences of national policy.
On the international front, Russian leaders, including the Kremlin, are sharpening their message to rebut any dissent. President Putin and spokesperson Dmitry Peskov have recently dismissed increasing criticisms of the war’s toll on the country and its people. "Dedicatory honor to those serving is the obligation of our nation,” Peskov stated during recent public commentary, illustrating the enduring support expressed by governmental officials amid rising dissent within the populace.
The Kremlin’s narrative is unwavering, yet public sentiment reflects the nuances of life within Russia under the specter of war. The realities are stark; the prices of basic goods and services soar as citizens seek to navigate the challenges of daily existence impacted by conflict. With deepening economic woes and shifting public priorities, the situation presents significant challenges for Russia as it moves forward.