The latest approval ratings from the Levada Centre show public approval for President Vladimir Putin rising to 79%, an increase of 2% on the September reading.

• President Putin Approval Rating: Approve: 79% (+2), Disapprove: 19% (-2). +/- vs. 22 - 28 September 2022. Fieldwork: 20 - 26 October 2022. Sample size: 1,604
• Trust in Politicians: Putin: 44% (+4), PM Mikhail Mishustin: 17% (+3), Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov: 13% (-2), Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu: 12% (-2). No one: 19%. +/- vs. 22 - 28 September 2022. Fieldwork: 20 - 26 October 2022. Sample size: 1,604
• Should be noted that the lack of independent media and concerns about the motives of pollsters in Russia can often suppress anti-gov't views in surveys. Nevertheless, the Levada Centre approval rating is viewed as one of the more effective gauges of public sentiment in Russia.

Source: Levada Centre

• The invasion of Ukraine saw a notable spike in approval for Putin, but this ticked down in September as the Ukrainian counteroffensive began to push back against Russian troops and the gov't enacted a 'partial mobilisation' of reserve troops, bringing the conflict home for many Russian families.
• The continued loss of ground in the south of Ukraine and the loss of the city of Kherson could prove another dent to Putin's support. However, it remains to be seen if this impacts Putin's standing with the public.