European Survey Reveals Deep Concerns Over Trump and Security Amidst Shifting Geopolitical Landscape

A recent survey conducted across five major western European nations – France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the United Kingdom – has uncovered widespread apprehension regarding Donald Trump’s perceived threat to peace and security in Europe. This sentiment has surfaced against a backdrop of rising tensions,fueled partly by TrumpS past actions,including “assailing Volodymyr Zelenskyy” and “suspended military aid to Ukraine.” (YouGov, 2025).

European Unease Amidst potential US Policy Shifts

The poll underscores a growing anxiety amongst Europeans concerning the reliability of long-term U.S. support for Ukraine and its european allies. This anxiety is further compounded by ongoing debates within the European Union regarding an ambitious “€800bn plan to ‘rearm’ Europe.” (The Guardian, 2025).

• Key Finding: A meaningful portion of respondents expressed doubt about the ability of remaining Western allies to adequately support Ukraine should the U.S. withdraw its backing.
• Defense Spending: The survey indicated a lack of widespread support for increased defense spending, highlighting a complex dilemma for European leaders.

Trump’s Threat Perception: A Comparative Analysis

The YouGov poll, conducted between Feb.26 and March 4, revealed that a majority in all five countries believe the former U.S. president poses a significant threat to European peace and security. The intensity of this perception varied across nations:

• Italy: 58%
• France: 69%
• Germany: 74%
• Spain: 75%
• United Kingdom: 78%

By comparison, concerns surrounding Vladimir Putin were higher, ranging from 74% in Italy to 89% in the UK.

Evolving views on U.S. Military Support and NATO Commitments

The survey data indicates a notable shift in European attitudes towards U.S. military support. Europeans are “markedly less willing to support the US militarily in the event of it coming under attack” and “significantly more skeptical that Washington would honour its collective defense commitments under the Nato treaty.”

Ukraine’s Future: A Contentious Issue

The survey also highlighted deep divisions regarding the future of Ukraine, with a majority in Britain (65%) and Spain (55%) believing that “Russia would probably attack Ukraine within 10 years of any peace deal.” In response to these concerns, “The French president, Emmanuel Macron, and Britain’s prime minister, Keir Starmer, have proposed stationing European peacekeepers in Ukraine to counter such an eventuality.”

However, support for this proposal varies significantly, with 52% of Britons and 49% of French respondents in favor, while only 36% in Germany and 37% in Italy support the idea.

Broader Security Concerns

Beyond Ukraine,the survey uncovered broader security concerns across Europe. “Six in 10 Britons thought this was likely, as did 44-47% of respondents in France, Germany and Spain” that Russia would attack other European countries within the next decade.

Expert Analysis and Implications

These survey results arrive at a critical juncture, questioning the long-standing transatlantic alliance and its future direction. Experts suggest that any perceived weakening of U.S. commitment to European security could lead to a significant reshaping of European defense policies and alliances (Dr. Anya Petrova, Center for European Studies, 2025). The European Union’s €800 billion plan to bolster its defenses is a clear indication that EU leaders are already preparing for a future where Europe shoulders more responsibility for its own security.

Actionable Advice

• stay Informed: Keep abreast of geopolitical developments by consulting reputable news sources and expert analysis.
• Engage in Dialog: Participate in discussions about defense policies and international relations with your community and elected officials.
• Support Diplomatic Initiatives: Encourage and advocate for diplomatic solutions to international conflicts.

the survey underscores a growing sense of uncertainty and apprehension amongst Europeans regarding the current geopolitical landscape. As the U.S. reassesses its foreign policy priorities,Europe must proactively strengthen its own defense capabilities and forge a united front to address emerging security challenges. Now, more than ever, it’s crucial to stay informed and engaged in shaping the future of European security. Consider researching your local candidates’ foreign policies and make an informed decision during election season, being an active participant in the democratic process is vital to a secure future.

What specific concrete actions can European citizens advocate for to strengthen European security in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges?

European Security Concerns: An Interview with dr. Evelyn Hayes

A recent pan-European survey has revealed deep anxieties about the future of transatlantic relations and European security. To delve deeper into these findings, we spoke with Dr. Evelyn Hayes, a leading expert in European defense policy and a senior Fellow at the Atlantic Security Institute.

Understanding the Apprehension Regarding Trump

Archyde: Dr. Hayes, thank you for joining us. The survey highlights notable concerns in Europe regarding Donald Trump’s perceived threat to peace and security. Can you elaborate on why this perception is so widespread?

Dr. Hayes: Certainly.The anxieties stem primarily from president trump’s past actions, especially his questioning of NATO commitments and his approach to Ukraine. His past “assailing of Volodymyr Zelenskyy” and actions like “suspended military aid to Ukraine” undermined confidence in U.S. reliability as a security partner. Europeans worry about a return to this uncertainty.

The impact on U.S. – European Relations

Archyde: The poll also suggests a weakening faith in the U.S.’s commitment to defend Europe and honour NATO obligations. How concerning is this shift in attitudes?

Dr. Hayes: This is a critical advancement. For decades, the transatlantic alliance has been the cornerstone of European security. If Europeans genuinely begin to doubt U.S. reliability, it compels them to take far more serious steps towards collective European defense, such as the “€800bn plan to ‘rearm’ Europe”. This survey indicates we’re already seeing early signs of that shift.I believe European leaders are preparing for many potential outcomes.

Defense Spending and Burden Sharing within NATO

Archyde: The survey also indicates limited support for increased defense spending across several European nations. How does this reluctance impact Europe’s ability to address potential security threats?

Dr. Hayes: This presents a real challenge. while there’s a growing awareness of the need for greater European security capabilities, convincing european citizens to significantly increase defense spending is challenging, especially amidst other pressing economic and social concerns. Political leaders have some work to do in order to get European public support for increased defense.

Analyzing the Threat Perception of Russia

Archyde: Concerns about Vladimir Putin and Russia’s potential aggression also feature prominently in the survey. How do these perceptions compare with anxieties surrounding the U.S.?

Dr. Hayes: While anxieties surrounding Trump are significant, concerns over Putin are generally higher, reflecting a more immediate and direct perceived threat. Though,the two are linked.Perceived American unreliability can embolden Russia, increasing security risks.

Future of Ukraine and Proposed Peacekeepers

Archyde: What’s your outlook on having European peacekeepers in Ukraine to deter potential future Russian attacks?

Dr. Hayes: The idea raises engaging questions.While intentions are good, you would need to ask, “Would they provide meaningful security or be a symbolic presence with many of the limitations of other peacekeeping operations?”. “Under what conditions would that deployment occur?” It would need careful consideration and broad consensus, which, as the survey shows, isn’t currently there. “How would they affect the prospects of an actual peace deal?”

The Broader Geopolitical implications

Archyde: this survey paints a concerning picture.What are the broader implications for Europe and the transatlantic alliance if these trends continue?

Dr. Hayes: If these trends persist, we’re likely to see a significant reshaping of European security architecture. Europe will need to invest more in its own defense capabilities, strengthen internal security cooperation, and perhaps forge new alliances. The transatlantic relationship may evolve into a more balanced partnership where Europe assumes a larger share of the obligation, as my colleague Dr. Anya Petrova has noted.

A Thought-Provoking Question on the Future of European Security

Archyde: Dr. Hayes, thank you for your insights. One final question for our readers: Given the shifting geopolitical landscape, what specific actions should european citizens advocate for to ensure a more secure future? Share your thoughts in the comments below.