European Trust in United States Drops to Historic Lows

A report released on June 10, 2026, by the European Council on Foreign Relations reveals a collapse in transatlantic trust, with only 11% of respondents across 15 countries viewing the United States as an ally. This represents a significant drop from 22% in November 2024. The survey, conducted in May 2026 across 13 EU member states, the UK, and Switzerland, attributes the decline to the second term of Donald Trump.

Respondents cited President Trump's skepticism of NATO, tariffs, threats to seize Greenland, and proposals to withdraw military support from bases in Germany as primary drivers of the rift. Majorities in every polled country now doubt the U.S. would provide military aid during an attack. Consequently, there is growing support for autonomous European security, increased national defense spending, and a preference for European military hardware, particularly in Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated these tensions necessitate a new form of European independence. While most polled citizens believe relations will improve after Trump leaves office, significant minorities in Italy, Sweden, and Denmark view the damage as irreversible. Despite the general trend, supporters of right-populist parties such as Law and Justice in Poland and Reform UK continue to view the U.S. primarily as an ally.