BS EDIT: US Soft Power Loses Ground

By Business StandardPublished On Jul 20, 2026

A Historic Shift

For the first time, more countries surveyed view China favourably than the US, signalling a major change in global opinion

Trump's Impact

The survey links the decline largely to Donald Trump's presidency, with confidence in US leadership falling across democracies

Allies Stay Loyal

Only six countries favour the US over China. Most are US allies, while India's stance reflects its border tensions with China

Europe Shifts

Several European democracies now see China more favourably, reflecting growing doubts about Washington's global leadership

Credibility Erodes

The US is increasingly seen as less reliable and less committed to protecting freedoms and global stability

A Divided World

Trust in both the US and China remains low, leaving the world with greater geopolitical uncertainty