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- October 17, 202612°
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European Survey: Only 11% See the US as an Ally
A new study across 15 countries reveals that only 11% of Europeans consider the US an ally. The findings highlight declining trust in Washington and a growing trend to strengthen defense capabilities within Europe.
A recent survey conducted across Europe reveals a significant hardening of attitudes toward the United States. In the poll covering 15 countries, only 11% of participants identified the US as an ally.
This figure is lower than the 16% recorded six months ago and the 22% noted in November 2024. The results indicate a deepening loss of trust in Washington among the European public.
The European Council on Foreign Relations, which conducted the survey, reported increasing skepticism toward the US in European societies, a trend that stands out ahead of the upcoming G7 and NATO summits.
The majority of respondents do not believe the US would defend them in the event of an attack. According to the research, this distrust has become the majority view in all surveyed countries.
Growing Shift Toward European Defense
The report also shows clearer support for reducing dependence on Washington in Europe. Participants are more inclined to strengthen their own defense capabilities rather than rely on the US.
On average, respondents supported increased defense spending 4% more strongly than a year ago. Additionally, 47% of participants favored joint EU borrowing to finance defense expenditures, while 35% opposed it.
The idea of reducing reliance on US military equipment also received broad support. In many countries, support for a "Buy European" approach exceeded 60%, reaching 75% in Denmark.
The study noted that former President Trump's threats to withdraw American troops from Europe, his criticisms of NATO, comments on Greenland, and decisions regarding Middle East policy contributed to the erosion of trust.
Jana Kobzova from the European Council on Foreign Relations stated there is a clear trend across the continent toward reducing dependence on Washington. She also highlighted significant confidence among European populations that neighboring countries would come to their aid in times of crisis.
Nevertheless, most respondents believe transatlantic relations can recover in the post-Trump era. In countries like Denmark, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and Sweden, over 60% of respondents anticipated improved relations in the future.
The survey found limited support for replacing NATO with a solely Europe-based defense structure, with only 29% backing this option.
Public opinion is also divided on Ukraine’s EU membership. In Austria, Bulgaria, Estonia, Germany, and Hungary, participants tended to oppose rather than support membership.
The May survey was conducted in Austria, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
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