Ukrainians' Attitudes Towards Poles, Russians, and Belarusians Deteriorate in 2025, Survey Results Show

In Ukraine, a noticeable rise in social distance towards representatives of different nationalities has been recorded, particularly towards Poles, Russians, and Belarusians. This information comes from a study conducted by the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KMIS) between September 19 and October 5, 2025. The survey included respondents from all regions of the country, and the results indicate significant changes in Ukrainians' attitudes towards various ethnic groups compared to 2022.

According to the study's data, the lowest social distance in Ukraine is observed between Ukrainian speakers and Russian speakers, with indices of 2.4 and 3.5 respectively. This suggests that the majority of respondents are willing to allow representatives of these groups into their closest social circles, such as family members and close friends. Following them are Jews, Canadians, and Germans, who have similar social distance scores (around 3.9).

In contrast, the highest social distance has been recorded towards Russians residing in Russia, with an index of 6.5. This is the maximum value among all groups, indicating a high level of alienation. Furthermore, 80% of respondents would not allow Russians even as tourists. Sociologists note that in the context of war, this alienation is entirely expected.

The research showed that compared to 2022, social distance towards most ethnic groups has increased, indicating a deterioration in attitudes. Notably, the most significant increase in social distance was observed towards Poles, where the index rose by 1.1 points. In 2022-2023, attitudes towards Poles were among the most positive, attributed to their support for Ukraine during the war. However, tensions in bilateral relations, particularly conflicts surrounding the export of Ukrainian grain, have influenced this change in attitude.

Additionally, public sentiments may have been affected by political discussions between Ukraine and Poland, especially regarding historical memory, as well as harsh statements from politicians on both sides. The social distance towards Russian-speaking Ukrainians also increased by 0.7 points, yet they remain the closest group to the Ukrainian population after Ukrainian speakers.

Changes in attitudes towards other nationalities, such as Canadians, Americans, and Africans, were less pronounced, with social distance increasing by 0.4 points for Canadians and Americans and 0.3 points for Africans. There was also a slight rise in distance towards Roma, Romanians, and Belarusians residing in Belarus.

Overall, the results of the study indicate that after a period of improved attitudes towards allies in 2022-2023, there is now a growing social distance towards most groups. The social distance towards Russians, which stands at 6.5, is the highest recorded in over 30 years of measurement. The social distance towards Belarusians living in Belarus is 5.6, which is also a high figure.

KMIS President Volodymyr Paniotto commented on the survey results, noting that the level of xenophobia in Ukraine remains stable, but attitudes towards Russians and Belarusians living in Ukraine have significantly worsened. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the new reality where ethnic Russians, Russian-speaking Ukrainians, and representatives of other ethnic groups are fighting a common enemy. Paniotto urged careful monitoring of interethnic relations in Ukraine to counteract negative trends that could diminish societal integration.