A growing number of Europeans are losing faith in the United States as a dependable ally, with a new survey indicating that only about one in ten people across Europe now consider Washington a true partner that shares their interests and values. The findings point to a significant shift in public opinion and suggest that Europe is increasingly looking inward to strengthen its own security and defence capabilities amid uncertainty over the future of transatlantic relations.
The survey, conducted across 15 European countries and released by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR), found that just 11% of respondents currently view the United States as an ally. The figure marks a sharp decline from 16% recorded six months earlier and 22% in late 2024, highlighting a steady erosion of confidence in Washington among European citizens.
Researchers described the findings as evidence of deep mistrust towards the US, particularly regarding its commitment to European security. Majorities in every country surveyed expressed doubts that the United States would come to their defence in the event of an attack. While confidence in American security guarantees has weakened, Europeans appear to have greater faith in support from neighbouring countries, with many believing that other European nations would stand by them during a crisis.
The decline in trust has been linked to a range of developments in US foreign policy. Analysts associated with the survey pointed to President Donald Trump’s scepticism towards NATO, discussions about reducing the American military presence in Europe, and broader geopolitical tensions as factors that have contributed to European concerns about Washington’s reliability. The report suggests that these developments have encouraged European governments and citizens to consider a future in which the continent takes greater responsibility for its own defence.
The survey also revealed growing support for strengthening European defence capabilities. Respondents across the continent showed increased willingness to back higher military spending and reduce dependence on American military equipment. Support for a “buy European” approach to defence procurement was particularly strong in several countries, reflecting a broader desire for strategic autonomy. At the same time, many Europeans favoured collective European funding mechanisms to finance additional defence investments.
Despite the growing scepticism towards the United States, the survey found little appetite for abandoning NATO altogether. Many respondents still regarded the US as a necessary partner, even if not a fully trusted ally. There was also a widespread belief that relations between Europe and the United States could improve in the future, particularly after changes in political leadership in Washington.
The findings come at a crucial time for the Western alliance, ahead of major international meetings involving leaders of NATO and the Group of Seven (G7). Analysts say the results reflect a broader transformation in European strategic thinking, with governments increasingly focused on building self-reliance while maintaining ties with the United States. The survey suggests that although Europe is not seeking to sever its relationship with Washington, confidence in the longstanding transatlantic partnership has weakened considerably, prompting renewed discussions about the continent’s future security architecture.
