**Public Support for Ukraine Drops in Western Europe**
A recent YouGov poll has shown that public support for Ukraine’s victory over Russia has dropped significantly across several Western European countries. The survey, conducted between December 3-18, found that the share of respondents favoring a negotiated peace has risen in Italy, Spain, Germany, and France.
**Decline in Support**
In Sweden, Denmark, and the UK, support for Ukraine’s victory remains relatively high at 50%, 40%, and 36% respectively. However, these figures represent notable declines from January levels of 57%, 51%, and 50%. The poll suggests that public willingness to support Ukraine “until it wins” has dropped significantly across these countries.
**Growing Skepticism**
The survey highlights growing skepticism about prolonged support for Kyiv as the war with Russia drags on. Many respondents across Western Europe oppose a settlement requiring Ukraine to cede territory to Russia, but there is widespread concern that US President-elect Donald Trump may reduce or withdraw American support for Ukraine after his inauguration.
**Poland’s Shift**
A CBOS poll in Poland showed a dramatic shift in public opinion, with 55% of respondents favoring an end to the conflict even if it means Ukraine ceding territory. This represents a sharp rise from 39% in September and 26% in April 2022. Support for Ukraine fighting without concessions has dropped to 31%, compared to 46% in September and 59% in April 2022.
**Complicating Kyiv’s Efforts**
The changes in public sentiment could complicate Kyiv’s efforts to sustain international backing in its defense against Russian aggression. These shifts in public opinion underscore Ukraine’s challenges as it braces for renewed Russian offensives and continued pressure from some Western quarters for negotiations.
**Other Developments**
In other news, Ukrainian Air Force struck a plant in Kamensk-Shakhtynsky that produces solid propellant for ballistic missiles. Russian forces struck the central market in Nikopol with a drone, injuring eight people. Inflation in Russia has reached its highest levels in nearly a year, driven by war spending and rising food prices. Russian companies are increasingly using Bitcoin and other digital currencies for international payments in response to Western sanctions.
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