The Pew Research Center's 2026 survey reveals a deeply negative international perception of the United States, particularly under President Donald Trump's leadership. The survey, conducted across 36 countries, highlights a median of 23% confidence in Trump's leadership of world affairs, a significant decline from the previous year. This trend is most pronounced in countries with which the U.S. has strong economic and security ties, such as Canada and key Asia-Pacific partners.
The survey also shows a steep decline in the share of the public who considers the U.S. a reliable partner, with double-digit drops in countries like Indonesia, Italy, Nigeria, South Africa, South Korea, and Turkey. This shift in opinion has taken place during Trump's presidency, and it is particularly striking in nations with longstanding ties to the U.S.
In terms of Trump's performance on specific foreign policy issues, the survey reveals mixed results. While he receives his highest ratings on international humanitarian aid, majorities disapprove of his handling of issues like tariffs, Gaza, Iran, Greenland, and the Russia-Ukraine war. The survey also notes a decline in the U.S.'s reputation for respecting personal freedoms, with a 36-country median of 39% saying the U.S. government does not respect personal freedoms.
The survey's findings paint a complex picture of the U.S.'s global standing, with varying opinions across different regions and demographic groups. While Trump's leadership is met with skepticism and disapproval in many parts of the world, there are also pockets of support, particularly among those who align with right-wing populist parties in Europe. The survey underscores the challenges the U.S. faces in maintaining a positive international image, especially under the leadership of a controversial figure like President Trump.
