The trust that Germans place in the United States has dropped sharply. A February survey conducted by the Allensbach Institute for Demoscopic Research on behalf of the “FAZ” found that only 34 % now support close cooperation with the United States, down from 62 % in 2020.
When asked about President Donald Trump’s policies, 64 % of respondents found no positive aspects. At the same time, 55 % said Germany remains dependent on American military protection. Earlier in the same period, before the US attack on Iran, 90 % of participants viewed the global situation as threatening.
These views have led many Germans to place increasing importance on cooperation with European neighbours. Three‑quarters (75 %) say Germany should work closely with France, 57 % with the United Kingdom, and 51 % with Poland. The share that sees Poland as a key partner has more than doubled over the past two decades.
Support for the idea of a European army has also grown. In 2017, 34 % were in favour while 35 % opposed. Now, 49 % support it and only 21 % oppose. Likewise, 54 % agree with the phrase “Europe is our future”. The strongest backing-65 %-comes from respondents aged 16 to 29.
The survey interviewed 1,052 people between the 6th and 19th of February.
