Transatlantic Ties Under Pressure

A recent survey, featured in the Munich Security Report 2026, highlights mounting concerns over the reliability of the United States within NATO and the cohesion of Western nations. Conducted in November 2025 among around 1,000 adults per country, the study reveals a notable shift in public perception across five key allies: Germany, Canada, the United Kingdom, France and Italy.

The data shows that two-thirds of Germans believe the U.S. has become a less reliable NATO member over the past six months - the highest level of skepticism among the surveyed nations. Canada follows with 57 percent expressing similar doubts, while the U.K., France and Italy report figures of 52 percent, 50 percent and 47 percent, respectively. Alongside concerns about the U.S. reliability as a partner, respondents also perceive growing divisions within "the West." In Germany, 41 percent agree that Western nations are now more divided than a decade ago, a sentiment echoed by 53 percent of Canadians and between 40 and 47 percent of Italians, French and Britons.

The findings of this survey underscore a period of uncertainty for transatlantic relations, as geopolitical tensions and shifting alliances reshape global dynamics. Analysts suggest the data reflects broader anxieties about leadership, collective security, and the future of Western cooperation.