Ukraine Political Sentiment
Ukraine Political Sentiment
In February 2026, the international research company Ipsos conducted a representative survey to examine perspectives amongst Ukrainians. The study included 2,003 respondents aged 18+ in government-controlled territories of Ukraine.
Key findings:
1. Pessimism leads, but uncertainty looms. 29% believe the country is heading in the right direction, 37% believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, and the remaining 34% are unsure — a significant reservoir of persuadable opinions.
2. Wartime experience and national symbolism trump political experience. Zaluzhnyi is the most trusted figure (63%), followed by Usyk (56%) and Budanov (55%). Zelenskyy ranks fourth (49% trust but with high 38% distrust level) — a polarizing profile for an incumbent.
3. The government reshuffle has failed to restore confidence: 45% negative vs. 32% positive.
About the Study:
The study was conducted by Ipsos (February 2026). Methodology: mixed-mode (telephone and SMS), n=2,003 respondents aged 18+ in government-controlled territories of Ukraine. Margin of error: ±2.2% at 95% confidence level.
