Survey Reveals Global Decline in U.S. Popularity Under Trump

A recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center has highlighted a significant decline in the global popularity of the United States, coinciding with the return of Donald Trump to the presidency. The survey, which encompassed responses from 24 countries—including ten in Europe—was conducted between late February and early April 2025. The findings indicate that a majority of respondents now view Trump as 'dangerous' and 'arrogant,' while simultaneously acknowledging him as a 'strong leader.' This duality reflects a complex perception of Trump's leadership style on the world stage.

According to the survey, the favorability rating of the U.S. has dropped in most countries compared to the previous spring of 2024. Respondents expressed a lack of confidence in Trump's ability to effectively address pressing global issues, including the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, climate change, and U.S. immigration policies. The Pew Research Center, a non-partisan think tank, has emphasized that this decline mirrors similar sentiments observed during Trump's initial election in 2016, although the U.S. did experience a recovery of its international standing during Joe Biden's presidency.

In Europe, Hungary stands out as a unique case where the majority of respondents expressed confidence in Trump, contrasting with the overall trend observed in other nations. Globally, there appears to be a consensus among respondents regarding Trump's character, with many labeling him as lacking honesty. In juxtaposition, French President Emmanuel Macron emerged as the most favorably regarded leader among the four assessed, which also included Russia's Vladimir Putin and China's Xi Jinping. Macron received a median confidence level of 46%, significantly higher than Trump's 34%. Meanwhile, Xi and Putin garnered 25% and 16% confidence, respectively.

This survey sheds light on the evolving perceptions of U.S. leadership abroad and the implications of Trump's presidency on international relations. As the world grapples with multifaceted crises, the confidence—or lack thereof—expressed by global citizens in their leaders raises critical questions about the future of American foreign policy and its influence on global governance.

The implications of these findings are profound, suggesting that Trump's leadership style may hinder the U.S.'s ability to engage effectively with its allies and address global challenges that require cooperative solutions. Going forward, the U.S. may need to reassess its approach to diplomacy and international relations, particularly as the 2024 presidential election approaches, potentially influencing both domestic and foreign policy decisions. The ongoing discourse around Trump's leadership and its impact on global perceptions will undoubtedly shape the narrative leading up to the next election cycle.