A new survey reveals that the longstanding “special relationship” between the UK and the US is under serious strain during Donald Trump’s presidency. According to research by More in Common, only 49% of Britons now consider the US an ally, while 11% see it as an enemy.
This marks a significant decline from last November, when six in 10 people viewed the US as a friend. Opinions are also divided on the US president himself: 34% see him as an ally, 23% as an enemy, and 29% as neither. Trust in the UK government’s ability to keep the country safe is low, with just 30% overall and only 17% of Reform UK supporters expressing confidence in Sir Keir Starmer’s leadership.
The polling highlights widespread concern over global instability, with 77% of respondents saying the world feels more dangerous than in their youth. Tensions have risen over Mr Trump’s approach to international affairs, including his comments on NATO troops in Afghanistan and his ambitions regarding Ukraine. Meanwhile, just 10% of Britons view China as an ally, reflecting growing wariness toward the rising superpower.
Luke Tryl from More in Common said, “It’s an understatement to say the past year has shaken how Brits see the ‘special relationship.’ The unpredictability of the US president has left many feeling insecure about our ties.”
When it comes to Sir Keir Starmer’s handling of relations with Mr Trump, public opinion is largely negative. Over half (53%) say his approach is ineffective, while only 31% believe it is working. Labour and Reform voters are particularly critical: a third of Labour supporters and nearly three-quarters of Reform UK voters describe the Prime Minister’s strategy as ineffective.
Views on the tone of the UK-US relationship are also telling. Four in 10 Britons feel Sir Keir has been too friendly toward Mr Trump, while just 7% think he has been too confrontational. Only 31% believe he has struck the right balance.
Concerns extend to China as well. More than one-third (35%) now see China as an enemy, and a majority oppose the proposed Chinese “mega embassy” in central London (45% against vs. 28% in favor). Support varies across party lines: 42% of Labour voters back the project, compared to only 36% who oppose it, while 62% of Conservative and 64% of Reform voters are against it.
Age also influences perceptions of global risk. Among those aged 75 and older, an overwhelming 93% believe the world has become more dangerous.
1 Comments
It is shocking indeed so few see the us as an enemy. This after threats of annexation, tariffs, derogatory speech, piracy... lunacy.
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