Global Confidence in Trump’s Leadership Remains Low

A recent survey highlights low global confidence in President Donald Trump’s leadership, with some exceptions. A cluster of countries, including Israel, Nigeria, and the Philippines, shows higher support. This paints a nuanced global picture.

Survey Findings

A Pew Research Center poll conducted with 42,151 people between February 8 and May 13 across 36 countries reveals that only 23 percent have confidence in Trump’s global leadership. This decline appears amid various geopolitical tensions.

U.S. Global Influence

The findings reflect a widening gap between U.S. influence and global public trust. Many allies and partners are questioning America’s reliability due to recent foreign policy actions.

Trump had “restored American strength at home and abroad” after “four years of Joe Biden’s weakness,” according to White House spokeswoman Olivia Wales.

She cited achievements like ending global conflicts, retrieving detained Americans, addressing Nicolás Maduro’s regime, and U.S. military actions against Iran. Wales claims Trump’s doctrine ensures American safety and deters threats.

Support Strongholds

The Philippines, Israel, and Nigeria demonstrate the strongest support, with 68, 66, and 65 percent confidence, respectively. Similar levels are seen in Kenya and Ghana. These countries, though geographically diverse, share political and ideological similarities that contribute to pro-Trump sentiment.

Lowest Confidence Regions

Conversely, confidence in Trump is lowest in the Middle East and Europe. Turkey and the Palestinian territories express minimal support, often in single digits. Countries facing direct U.S. policy impacts, particularly in conflict zones, exhibit the most skepticism.

U.S. Image Decline

Beyond Trump’s ratings, the global view of the United States is declining. The survey shows 37 percent hold a favorable view, while 57 percent do not. Indonesia, Italy, and South Korea are examples where perceptions have worsened.

Comparison to Biden’s Term

Since 2021-2022 under Biden, U.S. perceptions improved, only to decline again. In Canada, people viewing the U.S. as reliable dropped from 83 percent to 35 percent. Similar trends are evident across Europe and Asia.

Trump’s First Term Comparison

Surprisingly, current ratings in countries like France, Germany, and the U.K. are slightly better than at Trump’s first term’s end. Confidence had previously plummeted to low teen figures.

Key European figures from earlier polls:

• Germany: 11 percent
• France: 14 percent
• Spain: 7 percent
• U.K.: 22 percent

Recent figures show modest improvements but remain low.

Foreign Policy Impact

The survey occurred amidst ongoing geopolitical tension like the conflict with Iran. Majority disapprove Trump’s handling of key issues:

• Iran: 74 percent disapprove
• Gaza: 76 percent disapprove
• Tariffs: 77 percent disapprove
• Venezuela: 22 percent approve

Despite criticism, Trump’s handling of humanitarian aid finds some approval, especially in middle-income countries like the Philippines and Kenya.

Broader Trust Erosion

The survey underscores a deeper shift in global perception of the U.S. Fewer people believe it contributes to world peace or values other nations’ interests. Confidence in its democratic model has weakened. This suggests a systemic decline in U.S. soft power.

Future Implications

If trends continue, the U.S.’s international influence may become more fragmented, relying on specific regions, issues, and alignments rather than broad global trust.

Contact Newsweek editors for further information.