Fact Check: The World looks at America more negatively now

Fact Check: "The World Looks at America More Negatively Now"

What We Know

Recent surveys indicate a significant decline in global confidence in the United States, particularly during Donald Trump's presidency. According to a Pew Research Center analysis, more than half of adults in 19 out of 24 surveyed countries expressed a lack of confidence in Trump's leadership on the world stage. This sentiment was echoed by NPR, which reported that people in 15 of the 24 countries downgraded their ratings of the U.S. Furthermore, the survey revealed that majorities in nearly every country described Trump as "arrogant" and "dangerous."

The survey, conducted from January 8 to April 26, 2025, included responses from over 28,000 adults across various regions, including Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. The findings show that many people desire a more engaged America in global affairs, contrasting with Trump's "America First" approach, which has been perceived negatively by international audiences (Pew Research Center).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim that the world views America more negatively is robust. The Pew Research Center's survey is a credible source, having tracked global attitudes towards the U.S. and its presidents for over two decades. The survey's methodology involved nationally representative samples from diverse countries, enhancing its reliability (Pew Research Center).

Critically, the survey's findings align with other reports indicating a broader decline in America's global reputation. For instance, an Ipsos report noted that the proportion of people believing the U.S. would have a positive influence on world affairs fell in 26 out of 29 countries over a six-month period. Additionally, a U.S. News article highlighted a drop in the U.S.'s net global perception rating, which fell from +22% last year to -5% in 2025.

While some sources, like Gallup, show a consistent decline in favorable ratings for the U.S. since 2021, it is essential to recognize that there are pockets of positive sentiment, particularly among right-wing populist supporters in certain countries (Pew Research Center). However, these positive views do not negate the overall trend of declining confidence in U.S. leadership.

Conclusion

The claim that "the world looks at America more negatively now" is True. The evidence from multiple reputable surveys indicates a significant decline in global confidence in U.S. leadership, especially during Donald Trump's presidency. The prevailing sentiment among international audiences reflects a desire for more collaborative engagement from the U.S., contrasting sharply with the current administration's approach.

Sources

1. Majorities in key U.S. allies have no confidence in Trump
2. US Image Declines in Many Nations Amid Low Confidence ...
3. Views of the United States
4. RUPTURES AND NEW REALITIES - IGA Reports % : IGA
5. America's reputation drops across the world
6. Global Perception of the U.S. Plummets Amid Trump's ...
7. U.S. popularity collapses worldwide in wake of Trump’s return
8. U.S. Position in the World | Gallup Historical Trends