A survey by an independent research organization in Russia shows that support for the "special operation" in Ukraine remains high, while more people are concerned about a possible prolongation of the operation.

The Levada-Center conducted face-to-face interviews with more than 1,600 people in Russia in late July.

Asked if they support the Russian military's actions in Ukraine, 76 percent of the respondents said they definitely or rather support it. The figure fell 5 percentage points from March.

The respondents were asked how long they think the military operation will last. Twenty-four percent said they think it will last six months to a year, while 28 percent said it is expected to continue more than a year.

Put together, the two groups account for more than 50 percent for the first time since the survey began, indicating more people are concerned that the operation may last long.

The survey also shows young people are less concerned about events in Ukraine. Only 8 percent of the respondents aged between 18 and 24 said they are following the situation very closely.

Denis Volkov, director of the Levada-Center, told NHK that Russian people's interest in Ukraine has been fading over time.

He said many people were shocked at the military operation and used to begin their days by watching news in the early days of the operation, but now their lives have returned to normal.

On the high support rate for the operation, he said about 45 percent said they support it unconditionally, while some 30 percent said they support it under certain terms.

He pointed out that about 10 percent of those who supported the operation under certain terms were apparently afraid of making clear that they oppose it.

He then noted that people are clearly opposed to a general mobilization and that if the government goes ahead, it will cause social disorder.

The Levada-Center has been designated a foreign agent by the government. The center continues independent research and analysis, despite pressure from the authorities.