A recent CGTN survey spanning 38 countries reveals growing domestic and international skepticism toward U.S. President Donald Trump's 'America First' policies, with plummeting approval ratings and deepening concerns about global economic stability.
Shift in Domestic Sentiment
The April poll, which included 15,947 respondents, found 48.9% of U.S. participants dissatisfied with Trump's governance. Critics highlighted damage to stock markets from tariff policies (53.1%), uncontrolled inflation (60.4%), and anxiety over interest rate decisions (54%). This marks a sharp contrast to earlier expectations for his second term.
Allies Voice Strategic Concerns
Over 70% of respondents from key allies—including France, Germany, Canada, and South Korea—expressed pessimism about future U.S. relations. South Korea showed the strongest dissent, with 87% agreeing that Washington has neglected allies under 'America First.' Similar trends emerged in the UK, Australia, and Italy.
Developing Economies Push Back
Nineteen of 23 surveyed Global South countries reported dwindling confidence in U.S. engagement. Optimism fell by over 20 percentage points in South Africa, Egypt, Peru, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Analysts attribute this to perceived economic coercion through tariffs and supply chain restrictions.
Global Support for China's Trade Stance
China's countermeasures against U.S. trade practices garnered cross-border backing, with majority support in 37 out of 38 nations. Developing economies like Kenya (82.5%) and Egypt (76%) showed particularly strong approval, while G7 nations—including the UK (70.5%) and Germany (66%)—also endorsed the approach.
Conducted in partnership with Renmin University of China, the survey underscores shifting geopolitical allegiances as nations weigh economic resilience against unilateral policies.
