More than half of Russians believe that the ongoing war in Ukraine is having a negative impact on daily life, according to a new study by the Independent Research Project Chronicle.
In a poll conducted in February 2025, 54% of respondents reported negative impacts from the conflict, while only 9% said they had improved their lives. Another 32% said they were unaware of the major impact. The findings highlight the growing public’s dissatisfaction with the economic and social consequences of the war, now in its third year, Moskva’s news agency reported.
Economic difficulties were an important factor that shaped the sentiment of the people. According to the survey, 36% of respondents reported a deterioration in their financial situation from 27% in September 2024. Of the working Russians, 40% were forced to work long hours to maintain themselves, but only 6% experienced a decline in workload. Increased inflation and economic pressures have made it even more difficult for many to maintain their standard of living.
As the costs of war increased, support for military spending as a national priority fell. The proportion of respondents who believe defense is the main government spending fell from 43% in September 2024 to 36% in February 2025.
Meanwhile, those who prioritize social spending have increased from 38% to 48%, reflecting changes in attitudes amid growing economic hardships.
Despite these concerns, Russian society remains divided into war itself. Polls found that 52% of respondents still support the invasion, while 48% did not.
One important point of the argument is whether Russian troops should withdraw from Ukraine without achieving the stated objectives of the government. In February 2025, 41% supported withdrawal from 50% in September 2024.
Researchers suggest that the decline is linked to recent battlefield developments, as Russian troops make small territorial profits. These advances reinforce the belief among some citizens that victory is within reach and reduce pressure for negotiated reconciliation.
The view on the best way to end the war remains very polarized. The survey found that 26% of respondents advocated escalations involving mobilization, territorial expansion, or other offensive measures.
In contrast, 23% support eliminating emissions through diplomatic means, including negotiations with Western leaders, including President Donald Trump, withdrawal of the military, and agreements. Another 29% are unsure about the best course of action, while 17% believe the situation remains the same.
Recognition of external influences also shapes expectations for a war resolution.
Respondents who view the outcome of the conflict as dependent on figures like Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping were more likely to predict resolutions in the near future.
But Russian President Vladimir Putin remains the number most frequently cited in debates about how the war will end.