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70% of Russians Optimistic for 2026 Amid Ukraine Conflict

12/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

VTsIOM Deputy Head Mikhail Mamonov reports 70% of 1,600 respondents expect 2026 to be more successful for Russia, with 55% linking optimism to an end of the 'special military operation' in Ukraine.
Mamonov says public fatigue with the conflict is hard to gauge because dissent is tightly controlled.
Volodymyr Zelenskiy says talks with the United States and Europe are nearing a resolution and seeks a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.

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Story summary

VTsIOM Deputy Head Mikhail Mamonov reports 70% of 1,600 respondents expect 2026 to be more successful for Russia, with 55% linking optimism to an end of the 'special military operation' in Ukraine.
Mamonov says public fatigue with the conflict is hard to gauge because dissent is tightly controlled.
Volodymyr Zelenskiy says talks with the United States and Europe are nearing a resolution and seeks a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.