Poll: Nearly Half of Trump Supporters View Russia as Ally, Friendly Nation

Almost half of Donald Trump's supporters believe Russia is an ally of the United States or a friendly nation, according to a new Politico/Morning Consult poll.

The poll shows the GOP presidential candidate's base shows:

• 49 percent see Russia as an ally or friendly nation, but still are wary of it as a strategic rival;
• 24 percent view Russia favorably.

The Politico/Morning Consult poll was conducted among 1,999 registered voters using an online panel from Oct. 13-15.

Meanwhile, Russian television is airing state-sponsored infomercials encouraging civilians on how to prepare for an attack amid heightened tension between Moscow and the West.

In addition, state-controlled news operations have carried reports urging residents to locate the nearest bomb shelters and identifying which government agencies would be in command should war occur, The Sunday Express reports.

Moscow continues to face increasing criticism from the West for its involvement in the Syrian civil war, including condemnation for the bombings in rebel-held eastern Aleppo.

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