New spotlight publication: How to strengthen European popular support for Ukraine

With future U.S. support for Ukraine uncertain, the burden of aid is shifting to Europe. But sustaining solidarity across European societies will require a combination of smart persuasion and prescient policy, especially in times of economic uncertainty and political polarisation. This publication explores how European governments across the Ukraine Support Coalition can win over the hesitant political centre and rally public support behind a principled, cohesive approach to peace, security and independence.

Key messages

1. The US is turning its back on Ukraine, as well as on Europe. To galvanise and intensify public backing of support for Ukraine, a distinct and revised European strategy is both needed and welcomed by citizens in key European states. Majorities put their faith in the EU and support a distancing from the current US administration.
2. A European initiative for a negotiated peace with a focus on sanctions and framing around the defence of international law as the centrepiece of European efforts can bring different groups in societies on board.
3. We identify five distinct societal groups in the countries of the Ukraine Support Coalition. The two groups most reluctant towards more support for Ukraine offer political room for manoeuvre and might be won over. The ability to do so depends on whether politicians are able to address the topics these two groups worry or care about: and economic concerns, the prospect of a never-ending war, and the fear of being defenceless against Russia.

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