Americans divided on how they see Russia – poll
Americans are sharply divided over their perceptions of Russia, with a third of them claiming it is an ally, a CBS News/YouGov survey published on Sunday suggests.
A poll conducted between February 26 and 28 found that 34% of Americans consider Russia an ally or a friendly nation, while 32% view it as unfriendly and another 34% see it as an enemy. Republican respondents were more likely to hold a favorable opinion, with 41% describing Russia as friendly or an ally, compared to fewer Democrats.
It also showed that while 52% support Ukraine, 44% maintain a neutral stance, and only 4% side with Russia. Opinions on US President Donald Trump’s position are similarly split: just 11% believe he supports Kiev, whereas 46% think he favors Moscow. Another 43% say Trump treats both countries equally.
Back in March 2024, a different CBS News survey showed 37% of Americans believed that Russia was their country’s enemy, while 3% of respondents claimed it is an ally.
After the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalated in 2022, CBS News found increased pressure on Russia, with 78% supporting economic sanctions and another 72% encouraging the US to send supplies and weapons to Kiev.
Trump’s approach marks a departure from his predecessor Joe Biden’s strategy of isolating Russia, as he seeks to normalize bilateral relations. Both Moscow and Washington have suggested that this shift provides hope for a swift resolution to the Ukraine conflict. In an effort to broker peace between Russia and Ukraine, Trump held a 90-minute phone conversation with Putin on February 12.
