Trump's global impact: A divided world responds to his presidency

Donald Trump, the new President of the USA, raises hopes for peace in the Middle East and Ukraine. According to the ECFR survey, 62 per cent of Indians and 54 per cent of Saudis believe that Trump will bring stability to these regions. Similar beliefs are held by the people of China and South Africa.

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 agency they could only dream of before. In Europe, however, enthusiasm is much lower.

In Europe, including the UK and Switzerland, only 24 per cent of residents believe that Trump will bring peace to Ukraine. As many as 40 per cent of citizens from 11 EU countries believe that his return to power is not good news. This is due to differences in the perception of democratic values.

In countries like India and China, Russia is perceived as an ally. Sixty-one per cent of Indians and 39 per cent of Chinese see Russia as a partner sharing common values. According to 71 per cent of Indians, Russia's influence will grow, highlighting the changing balance of power in the world.

In South Africa and India, 72 per cent of citizens believe that America under Trump's leadership is on the rise. In Europe, however, only 29 per cent of Britons and 38 per cent of Swiss share this view. This illustrates the differing expectations regarding the new US administration.

China is perceived as the future power of the 21st century. Eighty-one per cent of Chinese and 77 per cent of Russians believe that the People's Republic of China will dominate in the coming decades. Even in the USA, opinions are divided, which indicates global changes in the balance of power.