A third would cut off all trade with Russia or more
TORONTO AUGUST 20th, 2014 –
In a random
sampling of public opinion taken by the Forum Poll™ among 1798 Canadian voters,
one third believe we are at risk of a third World War in the Ukraine (34%), and
a third also believe a new Cold War exists between Canada and Russia (33%).
More than half do not fear WWIII yet (54%) nor believe we are in a new Cold War
(53%). Those who believe we could end up in an international war with Russia
tend to be younger (35 to 44 - 40%), females (37%), the least wealthy (43%),
Quebeckers (40%), the least educated (44%), Evangelical Christians (40%), other
Christians (41%), non-Christians (51%), and Francophones (40%). Those who see a
new Cold War are those who can remember the last one (65+ - 44%), the less
wealthy ($40K to $60K - 41%), Quebeckers (40%), non-Christians (42%) and
Francophones (44%).
Plurality would increase sanctions on Russia or do nothing
When
asked which of a list of actions Canada could take to respond to Russia's
aggression in Ukraine, most (26%) pick increasing financial sanctions, while
just fewer say do nothing (20%). Among those who want stiffer penalties, most
opt for cutting all trade and travel to Russia (16%) and a tenth advise
supplying Ukraine with arms (11%). Few think Canada should intervene militarily
in Ukraine (5%) or declare war on Russia (3%).
"These findings betray a high level of concern among
Canadians about the situation in Ukraine. Those who remember the Cold War see
it happening again, and they fear a wider conflict. They are also more likely
to counsel stronger measures than sanctions," said Forum Research President,
Dr. Lorne Bozinoff.
Lorne Bozinoff,
Ph.D. is the president and founder of Forum Research. He can be reached at lbozinoff@forumresearch.com or at (416) 960-9603.
