Trump presidency sparks global hope, splits Europe on peace
Donald Trump raises hopes around the world, but not everywhere. An ECFR survey shows that only 6 percent of Indians and 8 percent of Russians consider his presidency bad news. What fuels this enthusiasm?
Donald Trump, the new president of the USA, evokes hope for peace in the Middle East and Ukraine. According to the ECFR survey, 62 percent of Indians and 54 percent of Saudis believe that Trump will bring stability to these regions. Similar beliefs are held by the people of China and South Africa.
Enthusiasm in the Global South countries
In countries like India, Brazil, and China, Trump is seen as a symbol of a new world order. Mark Leonard from ECFR notes that these countries have gained influence they could only dream of before. In Europe, however, the enthusiasm is much lower.
In Europe, including the UK and Switzerland, only 24 percent of residents believe that Trump will bring peace to Ukraine. As many as 40 percent of citizens from 11 EU countries think that his return to power is not good news. This is due to differences in the perception of democratic values.
Russia and China as allies
In countries like India and China, Russia is perceived as an ally. Sixty-one percent of Indians and 39 percent of Chinese see Russia as a partner sharing common values. According to 71 percent of Indians, Russia's influence will grow, which indicates a shifting balance of power globally.
In South Africa and India, 72 percent of citizens believe that America under Trump's leadership is on the rise. In Europe, however, only 29 percent of Britons and 38 percent of Swiss share this view. This highlights different expectations regarding the new US administration.
China as a future power
China is perceived as the future power of the 21st century. Eighty-one percent of Chinese and 77 percent of Russians believe that the People's Republic of China will dominate in the coming decades. Even in the USA, opinions are divided, indicating global changes in the balance of power.
