Recent survey findings indicate a notable increase in Czech public support for various forms of assistance to Ukraine, although political divisions remain evident, particularly regarding military and financial aid. The survey, conducted by the STEM analytical institute from January 16 to 23, 2026, reflects a shift in attitudes compared to previous assessments.
Compared to an earlier survey in October 2025, support for all types of aid to Ukraine has risen. However, respondents continue to express polarized views on military and financial assistance. Notably, no form of aid has garnered majority support for complete cessation.
“While views on the forms of support remain similar, there has been a shift towards greater commitment to the country affected by the war,” stated Jiří Táborský, an analyst at STEM.
Táborský noted that political differences primarily revolve around financial assistance and the supply of ammunition and military equipment. Among the various forms of aid, the provision of medical and consumer supplies to Ukraine enjoys the highest backing, with 70% of respondents advocating for its continuation or increase. Support for humanitarian aid directly within Ukraine stands at 65%, while 63% favor assistance for Czech companies establishing partnerships in Ukraine, and 58% back diplomatic and economic pressure on Russia.
These forms of assistance receive majority approval across nearly all demographic groups, except for voters of the SPD party, who consistently oppose any pro-Ukrainian actions by the Czech government.
As of January 2026, 23% of respondents prefer to reduce direct financial aid to Ukraine, while 44% advocate for its complete cancellation, totaling 65%. Additionally, 19% support limiting military equipment supplies, and 40% favor their cancellation (59% combined). Support for limiting ammunition supplies is at 17%, with 38% favoring cancellation (55% combined). Regarding training for Ukrainian military personnel, 16% support restrictions, and 35% advocate for cancellation (51% combined). Furthermore, 30% and 29% of respondents respectively support limiting or halting asylum for Ukrainian refugees (59% combined).
Public sentiment towards Ukrainian refugees has improved, with 58% of respondents now viewing the Czech Republic’s provision of asylum as appropriate, compared to 54% in January 2025. However, nearly half of the Czech population still perceives refugees as a threat, although there has been an increase in those who recognize the benefits of their presence.
Most Czechs support the presence of Ukrainian families, provided they learn the Czech language, work, and adhere to Czech laws. There has also been a decrease in the proportion of those who believe the government should stop accepting new Ukrainian arrivals.
Táborský assessed that the previous June was marked by relative pessimism, likely due to disappointment with the role of the United States under its new president and reports of setbacks for Ukraine. The current data appears more favorable towards Ukraine compared to January 2025.
The STEM survey included 1,061 respondents aged 18 and older, with a representative sample of the Czech population, employing CAWI+CAPI methods for data collection.
A recent survey shows an increase in Czech support for aid to Ukraine, with notable political divisions remaining regarding military and financial assistance. Public sentiment towards Ukrainian refugees has also improved, reflecting a complex landscape of opinions.