A CBS News poll published on March 2 found that Americans are split on supporting Ukraine in its fight against Russian aggression.
The White House has shifted its foreign policy approach following U.S. President Donald Trump’s inauguration on January 20. During a meeting in the Oval Office on Feb. 28, Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reportedly engaged in a heated exchange.
Most survey interviews were conducted before Zelensky’s meeting with Trump.
According to the poll, 52% of respondents support Ukraine in its war against Russia, while 44% remain neutral, and 4% openly back Russia.
When asked about Trump's stance, 46% of respondents believed he favors Russia, with most of these individuals also supporting Ukraine. Meanwhile, 43% felt that Trump treats Ukraine and Russia equally—this group overwhelmingly maintains a neutral position on the war. Only 11% thought Trump favors Ukraine.
Regarding Trump’s handling of Russia’s war against Ukraine, 51% of respondents approved, while 49% disapproved.
Republicans More Likely to View Russia as Friendly
Americans also remain divided on their perception of Russia: 34% consider it an enemy, 32% see it as unfriendly, and 34% regard Russia as either an ally or friendly. Among Republican respondents, attitudes toward Russia were slightly more favorable, with 27% labeling Russia as an enemy, 32% as unfriendly, and 41% as either friendly or an ally.
The poll also found that 51% of Americans support military aid to Ukraine, while 49% oppose it. Support was significantly higher among Democrats, with 72% in favor and 28% opposed. Among Republicans, 32% support military aid, while 68% oppose it.
Trump’s "In the Middle" Approach
During a press conference with Zelensky at the White House on Feb. 28, Trump stated that he is “for both Ukraine and Russia” and described himself as a mediator in negotiations to end Russia’s full-scale invasion.
"I'm for both Ukraine and Russia... I want to get it solved," Trump said.
