A recent poll shows a dramatic increase in the number of Canadians who perceive the United States as a significant threat, reflecting changing geopolitical dynamics amid ongoing trade disputes.

The perception of the United States among Canadians has taken a dramatic turn, with new polling data indicating a significant shift in attitudes. Amid President Donald Trump's assertive trade policies and international maneuvering, more than half of Canadians now view the U.S. as a major threat, according to a survey conducted by the Pew Research Center.

The poll reveals that although 55% of Canadians still consider the U.S. their most crucial ally, 59% have come to see their southern neighbor as a potential threat-a striking increase from just 20% in 2019.

"Canada sort of stands out as one place where views of the U.S. have changed significantly and substantially," remarked Janell Fetterolf, a senior researcher at Pew.

The research highlights global perspectives on America's role in world affairs, underscoring that citizens across various nations harbor similar concerns. In total, people from 25 countries were surveyed; while many continue to view America as an important ally, eight nations identified it as their primary concern-including Canada's fellow North American country, Mexico.

This sentiment is likely influenced by contentious actions such as tariffs directed at Canadian goods under Trump's administration-actions briefly linked to unrelated issues like fentanyl trafficking before being rescinded for goods compliant with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement.

The survey also notes that Trump’s administration targeted both Canada and Mexico with duties on steel, aluminum, and automobiles-measures that undoubtedly impacted cross-border economic perceptions.

Pew's findings suggest contrasting regional threats: while Russia looms large for Europeans primarily due to security concerns, Asian-Pacific respondents often cite China for its economic dominance.

A notable proportion of participants from Mexico, France, and Canada regard the United States not merely as an economic challenge but also as posing substantial national security risks.

A deeper dive into Canadian responses indicates that about three-quarters feel economically threatened by American policies and over half express anxiety regarding national security implications.

Pew's expansive survey included feedback from 28,333 adults across 24 countries between January 8th and April 26th. Additionally surveyed were 3,605 Americans during March through personal interviews or digital platforms.

Divergent perceptions emerged elsewhere too; notably in Israel where respondents overwhelmingly regard the U.S. favorably despite naming Iran rather than America when identifying predominant threats facing their nation today.