Public opinion in Germany expresses considerable skepticism regarding a potential meeting between US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, according to a recent survey conducted by the Forschungsgruppe Wahlen for ZDF-Politbarometer.
Only 13 percent of those polled believe the meeting will result in a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. A substantial 84 percent, representing majorities across all political affiliations, doubt this outcome. This skepticism appears strongly linked to a widespread lack of trust in President Putin, with only 14 percent of respondents believing he has a genuine interest in a lasting ceasefire, while 82 percent disagree.
The survey also highlights the importance Germans place on Ukrainian involvement in any negotiations. An overwhelming 89 percent consider it crucial or very crucial that Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and Ukraine are directly involved in talks between Trump and Putin to achieve a durable ceasefire, with only 9 percent viewing their participation as unimportant.
Regarding potential territorial concessions, opinions are divided, although leaning towards continued resistance. 42 percent of respondents indicated they would support Ukraine ceding some of its Russian-occupied territories if it led to an end to the war. However, a slightly larger proportion – 45 percent – believes Ukraine should continue to fight for the liberation of those territories.
The data was collected between August 11th and 13th, 2025, through telephone and online interviews with a randomly selected sample of 1,370 eligible voters.