Americans' views on Russia are deeply divided, reflecting the differences between parties and generations.
The results of a CBS News/YouGov survey conducted from February 26 to February 28 showed that 34% of respondents considered Russia an ally or a friendly country, 32% considered Russia unfriendly, while another 34% considered Russia an enemy.
Notably, Republicans tend to view Russia more positively, with 41% of respondents considering Russia a friend or ally, higher than the percentage of Democrats.
Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, 52% of Americans were asked to support Ukraine, 44% remained neutral, and only 4% stood on Russia's side.
President Donald Trump's views are also divided: Only 11% believe he supports Ukraine, 46% say he is pro-Russian, and 43% say Trump treats both countries fairly.
Compared to a CBS News survey in March 2024 - when 37% of Americans surveyed considered Russia an enemy and only 3% considered Russia an ally, the current trend shows a certain change.
After the Russia-Ukraine conflict escalated in 2022, Americans took a tougher stance, with 78% supporting economic sanctions against Russia and 72% approving US arms assistance to Ukraine.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump is pursuing a different approach to Russia from President Joe Biden, as he looks to normalize bilateral relations.
Moscow and Washington both believe that this approach could open up opportunities for a quick end to the conflict in Ukraine. Notably, President Donald Trump had a 90-minute phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin on February 12 to promote a peaceful solution.
