A significant majority of Germans believe their nation and the European Union should publicly rebuke the United States’ recent actions in Venezuela, even if it risks straining relations with Washington, according to a new poll by ARD’s “Deutschlandtrend”. The survey, conducted by the research institute Infratest Dimap between Monday and Wednesday, reveals a widespread apprehension regarding the increasing assertion of American power on the international stage.
The poll, based on responses from 1,323 eligible voters, indicates 50 percent of Germans favor a firm stance against the US, regardless of potential repercussions for transatlantic relations. A further 39 percent advocate for a more cautious approach, primarily to avoid provoking President Trump. This highlights a growing divergence in opinion even within traditionally aligned political factions.
While supporters of the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) and Christian Social Union (CSU) are largely divided on the issue – with 48 percent favoring a stronger response and 45 percent advocating for restraint – a clear ideological split emerges. AfD supporters overwhelmingly express a preference for caution (58 percent), with just 32 percent supporting a robust public condemnation. Conversely, strong majorities within the Green Party (78 percent), The Left (78 percent) and the Social Democratic Party (SPD) (69 percent) strongly favor a clear and vocal opposition to the US intervention.
The US military intervention, which resulted in the arrest and removal from Venezuela of President Nicolás Maduro over the weekend, appears to have significantly eroded public support for American foreign policy. The survey unveiled that 72 percent believe the action was unjustifiable, with only 12 percent finding it warranted. A further 16 percent expressed uncertainty or declined to answer the question.
Underlying these concerns is a pervasive anxiety regarding the state of international relations. A staggering 81 percent of Germans express significant or very significant worries that the principle of “might makes right” is increasingly dominating global politics. Only 15 percent reported minimal or no concern regarding this trend, suggesting a deep-seated apprehension about the potential consequences of unchecked unilateral action. The findings raise critical questions about Germany’s position within the international order and the delicate balance between diplomatic relations and the upholding of international law.