Pew Research: Americans Hold Strongly Negative Opinions of Russia and China

According to a recent survey conducted by the Pew Research Center from March 20-26, 2023, the majority of Americans have overwhelmingly unfavorable views of both Russia and China, as well as their respective leaders.

The survey revealed that a striking 91% of Americans hold unfavorable opinions of Russia, while 83% have unfavorable views of China. These figures represent the highest levels of negative sentiment toward both countries since Pew began tracking this data in 1994.

Moreover, Americans expressed little to no confidence in the leaders of Russia and China. Only a mere 10% of respondents have confidence in Russian President Vladimir Putin, and just 23% have confidence in Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Over the past decade, Americans' perceptions of Russia and China have experienced a significant decline. This decline can be attributed to various factors, including Russia's annexation of Crimea and invasion of Ukraine, the trade tensions between the United States and China, the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, as well as concerns about China's human rights record.

Another major concern for Americans is the deepening partnership between China and Russia. In March 2023, a substantial 62% of respondents viewed the alliance between the two countries as a very serious problem for the United States. This figure surpasses the level of concern expressed regarding any other issue in the U.S.-China relationship.

These survey findings come at a time of heightened tensions between the United States and both Russia and China. In response to Russia's actions in Ukraine, the United States has imposed sanctions on Russia.

Here are some additional noteworthy findings from the survey:

  • The majority of Americans perceive Russia as an enemy of the United States, while China is seen more as a competitor.

  • Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the percentage of Americans who consider Russia an enemy rose from 41% to 70%.

  • A significant majority of Americans (59%) hold favorable views of Ukraine, and similarly, 54% have favorable views of Taiwan.

  • Older individuals and those with higher levels of education are more likely than younger Americans to hold unfavorable opinions of Russia and China.

  • Democrats are more likely than Republicans to hold unfavorable views of Russia (73% vs. 48%).

Click here to review the report.

PEW Research, GovernmentBritney AchinAuthor: Kelly Littleton