News|Russia-Ukraine warMost Germans, French see ‘high risk’ of war with Russia, survey showsJust over half of citizens across nine European countries believe there is a high risk of a conflict, French poll finds.
A recent survey conducted by French pollster Cluster17 has revealed that a significant portion of citizens in various European Union member states perceive a high risk of conflict with Russia. Specifically, over half of the respondents from nine surveyed…
A recent survey conducted by French pollster Cluster17 has revealed that a significant portion of citizens in various European Union member states perceive a high risk of conflict with Russia. Specifically, over half of the respondents from nine surveyed countries consider the risk of war to be "high" or "very high".
The survey highlighted that Poland, a country sharing a border with Russia, exhibited the highest level of concern, with 77% of respondents indicating a high risk of war. In contrast, Belgium and the Netherlands reported a 59% perception of high conflict risk. Approximately half of the respondents from Germany, France, and Spain shared this sentiment.
In contrast, Italians were the least likely to perceive a risk of conflict, with only 34% of respondents expressing concern, followed by Portuguese and Croatian citizens.
Specifically, over half of the respondents from nine surveyed countries consider the risk of war to be "high" or "very high".
In response to the evolving security landscape following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, European countries have taken measures to bolster their defenses. France announced plans to reintroduce military service, which had been abolished in 1996, on a voluntary basis starting next year. Belgium and the Netherlands have initiated similar measures.
French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that these actions are a direct response to Russian aggression, indicating that Moscow might exploit any perceived weaknesses.
On Tue, Dec 4, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the potential for conflict, asserting that Russia is prepared for war if provoked. This statement was made in response to proposed changes to a peace plan backed by former U.S. President Donald Trump, aiming to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.
