Russia has military bases in several CIS countries (Kyrgyzstan, Ukraine, Armenia, and Tajikistan). More than half of respondents (55%) say these bases should protect Russia's borders. Respondents also say these bases should be used to protect Russia's national interests in the CIS (20%), ensure the security of Russians living in these countries (18%), help these countries protect themselves (14%), and contain the influence of NATO countries in the region (12%). Few respondents say these military bases should be used to ensure Russian influence on these countries' policies (6%) or protect the governments of these countries (2%). Only 6% say these bases are not needed at all.
A number of former Soviet republics behave unfriendly in relation to Russia. Forty-two percent of respondents say it is necessary to come to an agreement with these countries on disputable issues. More than half of the respondents (51%) say Russia should use economic pressure (sell oil, gas, and electricity at standard prices - 31%) or political pressure (restrict visas, limit migration to Russia, and even break off diplomatic relations - 9%) to resolve disputes. Only 11% of respondents say Russia should defend its interests by any means, including force. Three percent say Russia should not react at all to unfriendly steps.
This public survey was conducted in April and covered 1,600 people in 100 towns and villages in 40 regions, territories, and republics. The margin of error did not exceed 3.4%.
