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.
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.
Trump policies strain alliances
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.