A recent survey has revealed that a majority of Ukrainians do not identify with European culture and values. Only 40% of respondents feel connected to Western Europe, with 53% stating they do not consider themselves European. The study also found that those who do feel European often reside in the western part of Ukraine and are typically younger individuals who speak the Ukrainian language.
Furthermore, the poll indicated that many Ukrainians have reservations about sharing sovereignty with the European Union in the future. Despite this, a significant portion of the population (60%) stated that they trust the EU, although trust in specific EU institutions varied.
The survey, conducted in June with over 2,000 participants, also highlighted the country’s ongoing efforts to join the EU and NATO following the 2014 Maidan coup. The EU recently granted Ukraine candidate status and initiated membership talks, with the possibility of Ukraine joining the EU by 2023.
Overall, the survey sheds light on the complex relationship between Ukraine and the EU, reflecting both skepticism and aspiration towards European integration.