**European Public Opinion: A Shift Away from Following Trump’s Lead**
A recent poll conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations has revealed a significant shift in public opinion across Europe. The survey, which polled 16,440 adults in 12 countries, found that a majority of Europeans would oppose following President Donald Trump’s lead if he were to push Ukraine to cede territories or lift sanctions on Russia as part of a peace agreement.
The poll results are significant, given the escalating conflict in Ukraine and the self-imposed deadline by Trump to end the war within 100 days. Despite this deadline being missed, Russian attacks have only intensified, with recent reports of deadly missile attacks on civilian infrastructure and passenger trains.
**Majorities Oppose Concessions**
In all countries surveyed except Hungary, majorities opposed their own governments following the U.S. lead in pushing Ukraine to cede territory or lift sanctions on Russia. The opposition was highest in Denmark, the UK, Poland, Spain, and Portugal, while it was lowest in Hungary, Romania, and Italy.
The European Council on Foreign Relations report suggests that these results may indicate a desire among Europeans for an autonomous European policy to support Ukraine, rather than blindly following Trump’s lead. However, another interpretation is that Europeans want Ukrainians to continue fighting on their behalf.
**Increased Defense Spending and Compulsory Military Service**
The poll also asked about attitudes towards increasing defense spending and compulsory military service. Majorities in Poland (70%), Denmark (70%), and the UK (57%) supported increased defense spending, while large minorities in Germany (47%), Spain (46%), and France (45%) also backed this proposal.
When it comes to compulsory military service, France (62%), Germany (53%), and Poland (51%) were the strongest supporters. Crucially, however, not all age groups supported this proposal, with 18-29-year-olds being less likely to support compulsory military service in these countries.
**Growing Despondency towards the U.S.**
The poll also revealed a growing sense of despondency among Europeans regarding the U.S. under Trump’s leadership. Large majorities in the UK (74%) and Germany (67%) believe that the U.S. political system is “broken.”
**Regional Developments**
In related news, Russia launched a deadly missile attack on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro, striking civilian infrastructure and a passenger train. Meanwhile, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized the need for Ukraine to have military means to stay in the fight until serious peace negotiations begin.
As tensions escalate, it remains unclear what Trump’s next move will be, or whether Europeans will continue to speak out against concessions that could undermine Ukraine’s sovereignty. One thing is certain: public opinion across Europe has shifted significantly, and policymakers would do well to take note of these findings.
