A poll shows 73% of Germans judge U.S. relations critically, while Poland and Russia rank as equal key partners, with France seen best among others.
U.S. Relations Under Scrutiny
In a recent KfW Foundation study, 73% of Germans rate U.S.–German ties very critically, a sharp drop since Donald Trump’s election. Under President Joe Biden, 74% view relations as good, yet only 26% list America as their top partner.
Partner Hierarchy: Poland Equals Russia
The survey finds Poland and Russia tied as the most important partnerships for Germans. France is named by 46% as the strongest partner, while the U.S. is credited by only a quarter of respondents.
Other Close Partners
Only 2% identify China, the United Kingdom, Poland, or Russia as their nearest allies, reflecting a narrow pool of key partners beyond the larger corridors of power.
Debate Over Military Leadership
When asked if Germany should play a more active role in international crises, 48% favored that stance and 43% opposed it. A decisive majority—61%—reject the idea that Berlin should take on a military leadership role, with only 38% in support.
Ukraine War Tops Challenges
Forty‑five percent of respondents view the war in Ukraine as the biggest challenge facing German policy today, underscoring the domestic burden of the conflict.