The Munich Security Report 2026 has painted a striking contrast in global perceptions of U.S. President Donald Trump.
While most Western democracies remain skeptical about his return to office and policy decisions, India appears to be an exception, with a notable section of respondents expressing support.
According to the findings published by the Munich Security Conference, 38 percent of respondents in India said Trump’s policies were good for their country, while 36 percent believed his approach was beneficial for the world at large.
However, the report also noted concerns among Indians regarding Trump’s economic policies, particularly following the administration’s decision to impose 50 percent tariffs on India.
Despite this, perceptions of his broader geopolitical impact were comparatively less negative in India than in many Western nations.
In contrast, approval ratings in countries such as Canada, France, Germany and Japan ranged largely between 10 and 15 percent, reflecting a far more critical view of Trump’s leadership.
The Munich Security Index (MSI), which surveys public opinion across G7 nations and key Global South countries, also pointed to persistent skepticism about the Western “rules-based order.”
Policymakers in several nations have criticized it for what they see as selective application and double standards.
The report referenced remarks by India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, who has previously described the existing global order as appearing “anarchic and permeated by double standards” from India’s standpoint.
