Western Europeans Reject US Over Trump’s Greenland Bid, Choose Autonomy Over Alliance
February 6, 2026
Western Europeans are turning sharply against the US after President Donald Trump’s attempt to buy Greenland, a new YouGov poll shows. Large majorities in Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and Great Britain now hold an unfavourable opinion of the US. The negative views have surged since November, with disapproval ranging from 62% in France to 84% in Denmark. Support for the US as a friendly nation has also dropped significantly, especially in Denmark where only 26% now see the US as an ally, down from 80% in July 2023.
Despite this, many Europeans agree with the Trump administration’s claim that Europe relies too much on the US for defence (59-74%) and is hesitant on the world stage (45-62%). They disagree strongly with US accusations that Europe restricts free speech (18-31%) or treats the US unfairly in trade (10-17%).
Many respondents believe Europe’s defence, peace, and prosperity still depend on the US. Most see a breakdown in EU-US relations as bad for Europe. Still, the Greenland controversy has shifted opinions: 41%-55% of people in all six countries say European autonomy should come before maintaining strong transatlantic ties.
Western Europeans are unwilling to make big sacrifices to keep good US relations. The only widely supported action is reducing immigration. People in some countries would boost national defence spending or increase aid to Ukraine, but few support easing hate speech laws, adopting US trade policies, or paying for US troops in Europe.
Looking ahead, many Europeans believe US foreign policy will return to normal after Trump leaves office. If ties with the US worsen, most support higher defence budgets and greater EU political integration, giving Brussels more power. They remain divided on closer ties with other major world powers.
The poll highlights a growing desire for European independence alongside recognition of ongoing American influence.
Read More at Theguardian →
Tags:
Europe-Us Relations
Donald trump
Greenland
European Autonomy
Yougov poll
Transatlantic Ties
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