A new survey has revealed a significant decline in European confidence in the United States, raising important questions about the future of transatlantic relations.
The findings show that only 11 percent of Europeans across 15 countries now view the United States as an ally. The figure marks a historic low and reflects a steady decline over recent months. Six months ago, the number stood at 16 percent. In November 2024, it was recorded at 22 percent.
The survey results come ahead of key international gatherings, including upcoming G7 and NATO summits. As a result, the findings are likely to attract considerable attention among policymakers and security experts.
Confidence in US Security Commitments Weakens
One of the most notable findings concerns European perceptions of security cooperation.
Majorities in all surveyed countries expressed doubts that the United States would come to their defence in the event of an attack. Consequently, concerns about long-term security guarantees appear to be growing across the continent.
At the same time, support for stronger national defence capabilities has increased. Europeans are now more willing to back higher defence spending than they were a year ago.
However, opinions remain divided in some countries. Italy stands out as the only nation where a clear majority continues to oppose increased defence spending.
Growing Support for European Defence Funding
The survey also highlighted rising support for collective European defence initiatives.
Across the region, 47 percent of respondents supported joint European Union borrowing to finance defence projects. This reflects a growing belief that Europe should strengthen its own security capabilities.
Support for collective defence financing was strongest in Portugal, where 59 percent backed the idea. Denmark followed with 56 percent support, while the Netherlands recorded 55 percent.
These figures suggest that many Europeans increasingly favor a coordinated regional approach to defence planning.
Demand Rises for European Military Equipment
Another important trend emerged regarding military procurement.
Most respondents favored reducing dependence on American military equipment and purchasing more European-made alternatives instead.
Support for the “buying European” approach was particularly strong in Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden. Many respondents viewed greater defence self-reliance as an important strategic objective.
Poland, however, presented a different picture. It was the only country where a majority supported increasing purchases of American weapons.
Meanwhile, Germany, Italy, and Hungary displayed divided public opinion on the issue.
Defence Spending Faces Domestic Resistance
Although support for stronger defence capabilities has grown, many Europeans remain concerned about how those investments should be funded.
Large majorities in several countries opposed reducing domestic public spending to increase defence budgets.
Resistance was strongest in Italy, where 63 percent rejected such cuts. Austria followed with 59 percent opposition, while Germany recorded 56 percent.
Therefore, policymakers may face challenges balancing security priorities with public expectations regarding social and economic spending.
Europeans Remain Cautious on Russian Energy
The survey also examined attitudes toward energy policy.
Despite ongoing energy concerns and higher costs, 44 percent of respondents opposed restoring oil and gas imports from Russia.
The findings indicate that many Europeans continue to prioritize broader geopolitical considerations over short-term economic benefits.
As a result, public support for reducing energy dependence on Russia remains relatively strong across much of Europe.
Support for Ukraine Continues
Most respondents continued to view Ukraine as either an ally or a strategic partner.
Nevertheless, consensus weakened when questions shifted to future commitments.
Public support was less clear regarding the deployment of peacekeeping forces in Ukraine after the conflict. Similarly, respondents expressed mixed views about further expansion of European Union membership toward Eastern Europe.
These findings suggest that while sympathy for Ukraine remains strong, Europeans are more cautious about long-term obligations.
Expectations for Future US-Europe Relations
Despite current concerns, many Europeans remain optimistic about future relations with Washington.
Majorities in every surveyed country, except Bulgaria, believed that relations between Europe and the United States would improve after US President Donald Trump leaves office.
This sentiment indicates that many respondents view current tensions as linked to political circumstances rather than permanent structural changes.
Survey Covered 15 European Countries
The survey was conducted in May 2026 among adults aged 18 and older.
Participants came from Austria, Bulgaria, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.
Researchers used a combination of polling methods to gather public opinion across the participating countries.
Conclusion
The survey paints a picture of changing attitudes across Europe. Trust in the United States has fallen to its lowest recorded level among surveyed countries. Meanwhile, support for stronger European defence capabilities continues to grow.
At the same time, Europeans remain committed to supporting Ukraine and strengthening regional security. However, many also want greater strategic independence and reduced reliance on external partners.
As global challenges continue to evolve, these shifting public attitudes could play an important role in shaping Europe’s future defence and foreign policy decisions.
