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2022 Opinion Leaders Survey

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

We explore whether foreign policy professionals and the American public are on the same page when it comes to America’s strategy abroad.

US and Chinese on a meeting table
AP Photos
US Foreign Policy

Western Sanctions Have Largely Spared Ordinary Russians

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

Russians report limited impact of Western-imposed sanctions and continued support for the war in Ukraine.

Russians walk past the Red Square
AP Photos
Public Opinion

Majority in US Want to Learn More about Nuclear Policy

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

While crediting the US nuclear arsenal for its deterrent effect, Americans are less clear on its impact on the country or their personal safety.

nuclear missiles
Canva
Public Opinion

Do Russians Fear the West?

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

The Russian public is concerned about NATO expansion but does not think an attack from the West is imminent.

a woman holds a sign with NATO crossed out
AP Photos
Public Opinion

Majority of Russians Still Unwilling to Return Occupied Parts of Ukraine

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

While many Russians favor negotiating for peace with Kyiv, they are unwilling to give up any Ukrainian territory seized since 2014. They are, however, more open to a “neutral” status for eastern Ukraine.

Thousands of people wave Russian national flags as they gather on Red Square
AP Photos
Public Opinion

Russians Are Split over Benefits of Military Action in Ukraine

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

While a majority continue to express support for the war and more now sense the military operation has been successful, the Russian public is divided on whether it has led to more positive or negative consequences.

People wait a bus at a bus stop with an army recruiting billboard calling for a contract for service in the Russian armed forces
AP Photos
Public Opinion

The Difference "Difference" Makes for American National Security

RESEARCH
Report by Coauthors

Council data indicate Washington has a lot more to learn about the differences in how Americans see the problems we face and US standing in the world.

people stand below an American flag
AP Photos
US Foreign Policy

Race, Ethnicity, and American Views on US Foreign Policy

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

The Council partnered with New America to explore how Black, Asian, Hispanic, and Native Americans view key issues facing the world today.

people are seen through an American flag
AP Photos
Public Opinion

Race, Ethnicity, and American Views of US Military Power Abroad

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

Most Americans see military power and security alliances as an effective way to achieve foreign policy goals, but differences emerge about when to deploy troops.

a soldier salutes the American flag
AP Photos
Public Opinion

Race, Ethnicity, and American Views of Climate Change

RESEARCH
Public Opinion Survey by Coauthors

Asian, Hispanic, and Black Americans are more likely to view climate change as a threat than Americans as a whole, data show.

the U.S. Capitol is seen between cardboard cutouts of flames during a climate change protest
AP Photos
Public Opinion