Russian President Vladimir Putin visited China for the V-J Day parade. (Photo : Reuters)
At any given time, the Kremlin could move further deep into Ukraine, overrun the European nation and expect no quick reaction, militarily that is, from most member countries of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). A new survey is saying that public support for a counterattack against Russia is generally weak.
The new poll conducted recently by U.S.-based Pew Research Center showed that only 48 percent of Europeans will back a NATO-led military action that will expel Russia from the neighbouring countries it will invade. The Pew Research survey covered nationals in eight countries, two in North America - the United States and Canada - and six in Europe - the UK, Poland, Spain, France, Italy and Germany, BBC reported.
Indifferent To Collective Security
Already burdened by the alleged incursion of Russian security forces on its Eastern borders, Kiev has been working to gain full membership into NATO if only to depend on something solid in the event the situation further deteriorates. But NATO leaders may find it difficult to muster support for any initiative that will send any form of aid to Ukraine.
In terms of giving economic aid to the beleaguered nation, most NATO members would be willing to help but the public is not fully supportive of such action, the report said. The Pew Research data also indicated that many are reluctant to support the sending of arms to Kiev just so it will have a fighting chance against Moscow's perceived aggression.
But what if Ukraine is suddenly taken in by NATO as full member? The survey suggested that Kiev cannot be too sure that help will immediately be on the way in case of a Russian attack. The Pew poll painted a divided NATO on the matter. Americans and Canadians emerged as the most sympathetic while surprisingly German, French and Italian respondents told pollsters that their countries "should not use military force," to defend any county engaged in armed conflict with Russia.
Steadfast Allies
The only consolation for Ukrainians is that the survey essentially confirmed that the United States remains a firm supporter, alongside Canada. Another likely source of comfort is the possibility that the Russian public will oppose the annexation of Ukrainian territories and replacement of Kiev leaders by means of military force, the BBC report said.
This despite the same Pew Research survey indicating that Russians are totally supportive of President Vladimir Putin and his plans with regard to Ukraine. BBC, however, said on its report that those polled in Russia could be merely playing safe given the tightening grip of Putin to Russians' way of life.
