Asger Risom
A sweeping new survey reveals growing public support across Europe for increased defense spending, mandatory military service, and nuclear deterrence—driven by fears of Trump’s return and Russia’s aggression.
Fears over Donald Trump’s possible return to the White House and ongoing Russian aggression are pushing European public opinion toward stronger defense policies, according to a new survey published by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) and cited by Digi24.
Support Grows for Defense Spending and Military Service
The ECFR survey of 16,440 adults across 12 EU countries shows strong support for higher defense spending in Poland and Denmark (70%), the UK (57%), and notable minority backing in Germany (47%), Spain (46%), and France (45%). Italy remains an outlier, with 57% opposing increased defense budgets.
Many Europeans also favor reintroducing mandatory military service, with majorities in France (62%), Germany (53%), and Poland (51%).
However, support drops among younger respondents, especially those aged 18 to 29, who are most likely to be conscripted.
Growing Distrust Toward the U.S. and Push for Autonomy
The survey highlights a widening skepticism toward the United States, particularly in countries with historically close ties.
According to The Guardian, 74% of Britons and 67% of Germans now view the American political system as flawed. This distrust is influencing calls for European strategic autonomy in defense.
While most respondents are pessimistic about Europe’s ability to detach from U.S. security guarantees,
Denmark was the exception, with 52% believing EU military independence is achievable.
Backing for Nuclear Deterrence and Ukraine
Support for developing an independent nuclear deterrent is strongest in Portugal (62%), Poland (60%), and Spain (54%), though just 39% of Germans agree.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz has proposed a joint nuclear arrangement with France and the UK, while affirming the continued importance of the U.S. security shield.
Despite policy uncertainty, public support for Ukraine remains solid. The majority of Europeans reject the idea of following the U.S. if Trump were to push for concessions to Russia.
Even in Hungary, 40% oppose lifting sanctions, despite the government’s resistance to EU policy.
The ECFR survey, released just days before a NATO summit, underscores a continent recalibrating its security priorities amid global political instability.