A recent poll has revealed a significant decline in positive perceptions of the United States among Western Europeans, with many now prioritising regional autonomy over traditional transatlantic alliances. The shift appears to be largely influenced by President Donald Trump’s controversial attempts to assert US claims over Greenland, resulting in a dramatic decrease in the number of Europeans who view the US as a friend or ally.
Poll Results Show Diminished Trust
According to the latest YouGov survey, unfavourable views of the US have surged across six Western European nations, including Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Great Britain. The figures are striking: only 26% of Danes currently see the US in a positive light, a stark contrast to the 80% who held that view just months earlier in July 2023. The decline is echoed across the continent, with unfavourable opinions ranging from 62% in France to 84% in Denmark, where Greenland is a self-governing territory.
This dramatic downturn suggests that the Greenland controversy has catalysed a wider reevaluation of US-European relations. The poll indicates a growing consensus among Europeans that national autonomy should take precedence over maintaining ties with the US, with a substantial 41% to 55% majority across the surveyed countries supporting this view.
Diverging Perspectives on Issues
While Europeans largely agree with the Trump administration’s critiques regarding defence reliance and immigration, they diverge sharply on other key points. For instance, only a small fraction (18% to 31%) agrees with the assertion that European governments impose excessive restrictions on free speech, and even fewer (10% to 17%) share the sentiment that the EU has been unfair in its trade dealings with the US.
Despite these differences, many respondents acknowledge that European security still heavily depends on the US. Between 63% and 78% of Europeans believe that their continent’s peace and defence capabilities are reliant on American support, and a similar percentage views US economic power as superior to that of Europe.
Potential Shifts in Policy
In light of the shifting sentiment, some European leaders are advocating for a stronger European stance in international relations. However, the survey shows reluctance among the public to make significant sacrifices to preserve relations with the US. The only area of compromise appears to be immigration policy, which a majority supports reducing.
Interestingly, there is a willingness among respondents in the UK, Denmark, France, and Germany to increase national defence spending to maintain the alliance, while Danes and Britons show a readiness to enhance aid to Ukraine. Conversely, there is little interest in adopting US-favoured trade policies or disbanding the EU altogether.
Future Expectations and European Autonomy
Despite the current tensions, a notable portion of Europeans (39% in Germany to 57% in Denmark) still believes that US foreign policy will normalise once Trump is no longer in power. However, should relations deteriorate further, public opinion favours increased political integration within Europe itself. Between 46% and 63% of respondents support expanding the EU’s powers and decision-making capabilities, signalling a potential shift toward a more unified European stance in global affairs.
Why it Matters
This dramatic decline in affection for the United States among Western Europeans signals a pivotal moment in transatlantic relations. As the continent grapples with its identity and strategic autonomy, the implications for future diplomatic engagements are profound. Should this trend persist, it could reshape the global balance of power, prompting Europe to forge its own path independent of US influence. The evolving landscape underscores the necessity for both sides to reassess their priorities and strategies in an increasingly complex world.
