A recent survey conducted across the eight largest EU countries and Denmark reveals that more than half of Europeans view U.S. President Donald Trump as an “enemy of Europe.” The poll, commissioned by Le Grand Continent and Cluster 17, surveyed over 10,000 people between March 11 and 14, assessing European perspectives on transatlantic relations and security.
According to the results, 51 percent of respondents believe Trump is hostile to the European alliance, while 63 percent feel his election makes the world less secure. Concerns about his leadership style are also widespread, with only 13 percent saying he “respects democratic principles,” while 43 percent describe him as having “authoritarian tendencies” and 39 percent believe he “acts like a dictator.”
The survey also highlights broader scepticism toward figures associated with Trump. Nearly 80 percent of respondents expressed distrust in billionaire entrepreneur and presidential adviser Elon Musk. Furthermore, in Belgium, Denmark, and France, almost half of those surveyed said Europeans should boycott Tesla’s electric vehicles.
Security concerns remain high, with 55 percent of Europeans believing there is a significant risk of armed conflict on EU territory in the coming years. The fear is most pronounced in Eastern Europe, particularly in Romania (74 percent) and Poland (71 percent). Interestingly, these countries also tend to have a higher level of trust in Trump compared to Western Europe.
When it comes to defence, only 10 percent believe the EU can rely on the U.S. under Trump’s leadership, while 70 percent say Europe must ensure its own security. While opinions vary on whether this should be through national armies or a unified European force, a majority in most countries support the creation of a common EU military.
via Politico