Security guarantees must be concrete, credible, and clearly articulated concerning Ukrainian society expectations

Jonathan Marshall, Political Counsellor, British Embassy in Ukraine, in his remarks during the presentation of of a recent opinion poll focused on the importance of understanding Ukrainian public opinion, not just the views of political elites, when shaping foreign policy and supporting Ukraine. He highlights Ukrainians’ strong commitment to fighting corruption, the significance of trust in institutions and international partners, and the critical need for concrete and credible security guarantees, including NATO support, in the context of ongoing war and long-term peace:

• It is very encouraging to see that the United Kingdom ranks so highly in terms of trust in this survey. In the UK, we also closely follow public opinion on foreign policy, and it is genuinely heartening to see that, even as the war continues, public support for our policy toward Ukraine, including significant military assistance and diplomatic engagement, remains very strong. 
• This research is extremely valuable because it helps partners working with Ukraine to understand not only the views of those in positions of power, but also broader public sentiment. This is particularly important when we think about negotiations, long-term peace, and sustainable peace. Any settlement must ultimately be something that the public can accept. Keeping that in mind is essential, especially at a time when headlines change rapidly and political pressure is intense.
• Ukrainians continue to place importance on fighting corruption, particularly in the context of EU accession. This year, we have witnessed several significant developments – some progress, and some challenges – but overall Ukraine is taking meaningful steps to address corruption.
• I was particularly struck by the finding that more than half of Ukrainians say they would be prepared to protest. I see this not as a sign of instability, but as evidence of a vibrant democracy.
• Trust in institutions and trust in leaders is another crucial theme of this survey. Decisions are being taken in capitals, and the key question is whether Ukrainians trust that those decisions are being made in Ukraine’s interests.
• Trust in key partners is evolving. The survey shows changes in levels of trust toward some partners, including the United States. Across Europe, we are also experiencing similar debates. What is very clear, however, is the complete lack of trust toward Russia and its actions.
• This research offers important insights into public attitudes toward security guarantees. Support for NATO remains high, but there are signs that it may be declining slightly, as well as questions about whether NATO is seen as the primary security guarantee. The fact that nuclear weapons emerge as a perceived security option is a powerful reminder of the lessons of the 1990s and the agreements that followed Ukraine’s decision to give up its nuclear arsenal.
• In London and other capitals, this underscores that security guarantees must be more than abstract promises. They must be concrete, credible, and clearly articulated – particularly when Ukrainian public opinion expresses such clear expectations.

The recording of the broadcast in Ukrainian is available on our Facebook page, and in English – on the New Europe YouTube channel.