Published：Jun 10, 04:00Last updated：Jun 12, 19:55

European Trust in US Hits Historic Low

Jun. 10, 2026 04:00

A survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations shows deep distrust in the US among Europeans. Only 10% view the US as an ally, with majorities doubting US aid in an attack. The findings come ahead of critical G7 and Nato summits. The report underscores a historic low in European confidence in US security guarantees.

Summarized

8News

7Media

Jun. 11, 2026 00:01

A poll conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) revealed that only 11% of citizens in 15 European countries consider the US an "ally." This marks a significant decline from 22% a year and a half ago and 16% six months ago. The survey, which included 19,481 respondents from countries like the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Poland, showed that 25% view the US as a "competitor" or "enemy." Additionally, fewer than 40% of respondents in any country believe the US would defend them if attacked, while most trust that at least some European countries would come to their aid.

Jun. 12, 2026 19:55

A poll reveals that European trust in the US has reached a historic low. The report coincides with Finnish soldiers participating in NATO-led joint exercises in the Kainuu region on May 27, 2026. The findings reflect shifting geopolitical sentiments in Europe.

A new survey by the European Council on Foreign Relations reveals plummeting European confidence in the United States, with only 10-11% of respondents across 15 countries considering the US an ally. The findings, released ahead of critical G7 and NATO summits, show deep skepticism about American security guarantees, particularly regarding military assistance during an attack. The report attributes this shift to policies during Donald Trump's presidency, including NATO skepticism and transactional diplomacy. The Guardian+2

🌍 Regional Breakdown

The poll covered major European nations including France, Germany, UK, Italy, Spain, and Poland. Trust levels varied significantly, with Poland showing the highest confidence at 38% while Spain registered just 13%. Notably, 25% of respondents now classify the US as a "competitor" or "enemy," doubling previous figures. TASS+2

🛡️ Security Concerns

Fewer than 40% of Europeans in any surveyed country believe the US would defend them if attacked. This contrasts with higher confidence in intra-European mutual defense, with most expecting support from neighboring nations. The data emerges alongside NATO military exercises in Finland's Kainuu region, highlighting Europe's strategic recalibration. The Independent+2

📉 Historical Context

The 11% ally perception marks a dramatic drop from 22% eighteen months prior and 16% six months ago. Researchers cite Trump-era actions like the Greenland purchase attempt and public NATO funding disputes as key drivers of this decline. The survey sampled 19,481 respondents across political spectrums. Asahi Shimbun+2

🤝 Geopolitical Implications

These findings signal a potential rupture in transatlantic relations, with Europeans increasingly adopting pragmatic foreign policy approaches. The timing before major international summits suggests the data may influence discussions about European strategic autonomy and defense spending priorities. The Guardian+2

NATOFrancePolandDonald TrumpEuropean Council on Foreign Relations