A recent survey indicates that Swedes' perceptions of the U.S. have dramatically shifted, with only 7% expressing a positive view of the country, paralleling their increasingly negative view of Donald Trump.
A year after Donald Trump was inaugurated as U.S. president once again, his administration's actions and rhetoric, including derogatory comments about Europe and threats of high tariffs, have significantly influenced public opinion in Sweden. A recent DN/Ipsos poll reveals that only 7% of respondents now hold a positive view of the U.S., a sharp decline from 34% in 2023 and 10% the previous year. This marks a concerning trend in how Sweden perceives America's standing in the world.
According to Nicklas Källebring, an opinion analyst at Ipsos, the shift in sentiment can be largely attributed to Trump himself. As the administration continues to impact the country's image negatively, Källebring warns that if the current trajectory persists, Sweden's viewpoint on the U.S. could soon mirror the prevailing negative attitudes held towards Russia. This growing disapproval of American foreign policy under Trump's leadership has led to a broader reevaluation of the U.S. in Swedish society.
Furthermore, the survey shows a consistent decline in Trump's popularity, as more Swedes report negative feelings towards him. This trend highlights the implications of his policies and statements on international perception, suggesting that Trump's administration could be fostering an environment where traditional allies are increasingly disenchanted. As these sentiments develop, it raises questions about diplomatic relations and the political landscape between Sweden and the United States as Trump continues his presidency.
