The world’s trust in America as a global leader is slipping. A new Ipsos poll of 29 countries reveals a sharp decline in how the U.S. is perceived on the international stage. The survey, conducted six months after Donald Trump’s return to the presidency, shows America’s global standing deteriorating. In 26 out of 29 countries, fewer people now believe the U.S. will positively influence world affairs.
Across all nations surveyed, only 46% believe the U.S. will act as a force for good. This marks a steep drop from the 59% recorded before the 2024 election. The decline reflects skepticism toward U.S. foreign policy under Trump’s second administration.
CANADIAN TRUST IN U.S. HITS RECORD LOW
Among the most dramatic shifts is Canada’s plummeting trust. Only 19% of Canadians now view the U.S. as a positive global force, down from 52% just six months ago. This 33-point drop is the largest decline in any country since Ipsos began tracking the data in 2015.
This fall comes despite Canada’s close political and economic ties with its southern neighbor. Analysts suggest that repeated diplomatic tensions during Trump’s first term, now reignited, have worn down public confidence in America.
PARTISAN SPLIT WIDENS AMONG AMERICANS
The survey also highlights deep divisions within the United States itself. While 85% of Republicans believe the U.S. plays a positive role globally, only 45% of Democrats agree. Nationally, 63% of Americans hold a favorable view of their country’s global influence. This is still the lowest level recorded in the past decade.
These numbers suggest that the MAGA movement’s vision of restored national pride may not reflect the broader global sentiment America enjoys.
CHINA OVERTAKES U.S. IN GLOBAL FAVORABILITY
For the first time in a decade, more people see China as a positive global actor than the United States. According to Ipsos, 49% of respondents across 29 countries view China’s international role favorably. That marks a 10-point jump in just six months.
China still faces criticism over human rights and trade practices. Yet, many nations now see Beijing as a more stable and reliable global partner than America. This shift suggests a recalibration in how countries align with emerging powers.
MIXED GLOBAL PERCEPTIONS ON OTHER NATIONS
Although China saw the most significant gains, other nations also improved their global standing. Countries like Iran, Pakistan, Russia, and Saudi Arabia showed marginal increases in favorability. Iran, despite longstanding tensions with the West, improved its perception score, suggesting geopolitical complexities are reshaping public opinion.
Meanwhile, Israel and Iran remain the least likely to be seen as having a positive global influence. Still, changing dynamics could further alter perceptions over time.
U.S. ALLIES QUESTION TRUMP’S GLOBAL STRATEGY
Ipsos Vice President Chris Jackson said America’s declining image contradicts Trump’s pledge to restore international respect. He pointed out that the drop in favorability among allies in Europe and Canada shows deep concerns. These concerns are about Trump’s foreign policy direction.
Three months into his second term, Trump’s focus remains largely domestic. Analysts say this inward strategy could continue to isolate America from its traditional allies, weakening its leadership on global issues like climate change, security, and trade.
IMPLICATIONS FOR U.S. FOREIGN POLICY
America’s declining reputation have long-term consequences. As more nations turn to China, the U.S. could lose diplomatic clout. The shift also affect global cooperation on major challenges, including technology regulation, environmental crises, and conflict resolution.
As global alliances shift, Washington needs to rethink its approach in America. If the current trend continues, restoring America’s image need more than campaign slogans and domestic gains.
REPUTATION MATTERS MORE THAN EVER
This latest Ipsos survey offers a sobering snapshot of America’s place in the world. While domestic politics often ignore foreign opinion, global reputation matters. It shapes trade, security partnerships, and diplomatic influence.
With China now leading in favorability, the U.S. faces a critical decision: adapt its approach to regain trust or risk slipping further in global relevance; America must rethink its strategies.
