EU Citizens See Ukraine War as the Union’s No. 1 Problem – Eurobarometer

A new European survey indicates that the war in Ukraine continues to dominate public concerns across the European Union, remaining the issue most frequently cited by EU citizens when asked about the main challenges facing the bloc.

The Gaze reports this, referring to Eurobarometer.

According to the poll, 47% of respondents identify Russia’s war against Ukraine as the EU’s most pressing problem today. 

When Europeans look ahead to the long-term global challenges for the Union, international conflicts top the list (41%), followed by illegal migration (35%), climate change and environmental threats (31%), and growing worries that the EU may lose influence on the world stage (30%).

The survey highlights broad public backing for a more coordinated EU approach to global economic policy.

A striking 79% of Europeans believe that member states achieve better results in trade negotiations and economic partnerships when they act collectively through EU institutions rather than individually.

An even larger majority, 83%, say the EU should diversify its trade relations worldwide to strengthen economic independence and support European businesses.

Europeans also show strong support for internal EU initiatives aimed at strengthening the bloc’s economy.

81% agree that the EU needs to help its industries become more competitive and accelerate decarbonisation efforts, while 82% believe the Union must take action to ensure fairness between different social groups and generations.

When asked which policy areas should be prioritised at EU level, security and defence come first (34%), followed by illegal migration (32%), and the war in Ukraine (27%).

Surveys conducted in July by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) showed that while most Ukrainians still view Europe as a reliable ally, attitudes toward the United States fluctuate depending on statements made by President Donald Trump.

As The Gaze previously reported, according to a new Harvard CAPS/Harris poll, nearly seven in ten Americans support continued U.S. military assistance to Ukraine and stronger sanctions against Russia.