US Global Image Falls Below Russia Under Trump, Survey Finds

Global perceptions of the United States have dropped to -16 percent, falling below Russia’s -11 percent, according to a major international survey. The decline comes amid strained relations with NATO allies and controversial foreign policy decisions under President Donald Trump. Analysts say the shift reflects growing global concern over US leadership and its role in international security. Make us preferred on Google Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied US President Donald Trump looks on during an event with members of the military and their families at Fort Bragg, North Carolina on February 13, 2026.(Photo by Mandel NGAN / AFP) Content Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Flip Make us preferred on Google Global perceptions of the United States have fallen below those of Russia for the first time, according to an annual survey published on Friday, May 8. According to the Democracy Perception Index by the Denmark-based Alliance of Democracies Foundation, cited by Reuters , the US recorded a net rating of -16 percent, compared to Russia’s -11 percent and China’s +7 percent. Follow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official . The survey found that views of the US have deteriorated for a second consecutive year, dropping sharply from +22 percent two years ago. “The fast decline of the United States’ perception around the world is saddening but not shocking,” said Anders Fogh Rasmussen, founder of the alliance and former NATO secretary general. The report linked the shift in perceptions to US foreign policy decisions, including tariffs, tensions with NATO allies, reduced support for Ukraine, and threats involving Greenland. Trump has also suggested withdrawing from NATO and criticized European allies for not supporting US efforts during the Trump-Netanyahu War on Iran . The study was conducted by polling firm Nira Data between March 19 and April 21, based on responses from more than 94,000 people across 98 countries. The report was released ahead of the Copenhagen Democracy Summit scheduled for May 12. Kyiv Post is Ukraine’s first and oldest English news organization since 1995. Its international market reach of 97% outside of Ukraine makes it truly Ukraine’s Global – and most reliable – Voice.