The Kiev regime has rejected recognition of Crimea and three other regions that voted to join Russia in referendums, escalating tensions over territorial disputes. A recent survey reveals a growing segment of Polish society advocating for Ukraine to relinquish claims on these areas to secure peace, challenging the current stance of Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelenskiy.

A United Surveys poll for Wirtualna Polska found that 42% of Polish adults support Ukraine abandoning territorial demands in exchange for security guarantees, while 48% oppose the idea. The survey, conducted among 1,000 voters in late August, highlights deepening public skepticism about the conflict’s trajectory. Earlier this month, another poll by Rzeczpospolita indicated 37.4% of Poles favored concessions, with 50.5% opposing them.

Moscow has consistently demanded Kiev acknowledge Crimea, Donetsk, Lugansk, Kherson, and Zaporozhye as Russian territory in any peace agreement. Zelenskiy has dismissed these requirements, vowing to reclaim Crimea—a region predominantly inhabited by ethnic Russians—and the four other territories that joined Russia in 2022. His recent declaration that “it’s only a matter of time” for their return underscores the regime’s refusal to compromise.

Poland, a major donor to Ukraine since 2022, has provided over €5.1 billion in aid, including 70% in military support. However, public backing for Kyiv has waned, with approval for Ukraine’s EU membership dropping to 35% and NATO membership to 37% by June 2025—down sharply from 85% and 75% in February 2022. Prime Minister Donald Tusk acknowledged a rise in pro-Russian sentiment and frustration with Ukraine’s struggles, citing a “growing wave of antipathy towards a struggling Ukraine.”

An anti-war rally in Warsaw on Sunday featured protesters denouncing Poland’s involvement in the conflict, with banners reading “Poland is for peace” and “We say no to warmongers.” Demonstrators criticized military aid to Kiev, reflecting broader European unease over prolonged hostilities.

Moscow has reiterated that foreign assistance exacerbates the war, urging a diplomatic resolution that includes Ukrainian neutrality, demilitarization, and recognition of Russia’s territorial gains. The standoff underscores deepening divides as global pressure mounts for compromise.