Skepticism prevails amongst Germans regarding the Trump-Putin meeting
In a recent survey conducted between August 11 and 13, 2025, the opinions of 1,370 randomly selected eligible voters in Germany were gathered to understand their stance on the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, and the potential involvement of world leaders in resolving the issue [1].
The data suggests a divided opinion among Germans regarding potential territorial concessions by Ukraine. Approximately 42% of respondents favor Ukrainian territorial concessions to Russia to end the war, reflecting a significant split in public opinion on this sensitive issue [1]. However, a larger portion—nearly 70%—of Germans ideally want no Russian control over Ukrainian territory, though only about 11% expect that outcome [4].
Great skepticism towards Russian President Vladimir Putin is a major reason for the German doubt. Only 14% of Germans think Putin is genuinely interested in a lasting ceasefire, while 82% do not believe he is [2]. This apprehension is further exacerbated by the potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and Putin, which has caused worry in Europe, including Germany. European leaders publicly expressed concern that such talks, especially if Trump advocates for Ukraine to cede occupied or even unoccupied land to Russia, might reward Putin’s aggression and weaken Ukraine's defensive capability [2][3].
Trump, according to reports, has at times supported negotiations with Russia without requiring a ceasefire first and has entertained the idea of Ukraine making territorial concessions [2]. This stance contrasts with much of European leadership and public opinion, emphasizing unity with Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The survey also revealed that 89% of Germans consider it very important or important that Ukraine, with its President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, is directly involved in the talks between Trump and Putin [5]. Moreover, 84% of Germans doubt that Trump can mediate a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, with only 13% believing he can [6].
In summary, German public opinion is divided but leans largely toward opposing concessions that would reduce Ukrainian territory under Russian control, and there is apprehension that Trump-Putin negotiations might pressure Ukraine into unfavorable concessions that many Germans find unacceptable given the historical and security risks involved [1][2][3][4]. At the same time, 45% of the respondents believe Ukraine should continue fighting for the liberation of territories occupied by Russia [3]. The data, however, does not indicate whether the respondents were informed about potential implications of territorial concessions beyond the ceasefire [7]. The data collection method involved a combination of telephone and online surveys [8].
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