The United States, once admired globally, is now perceived as more interventionist and less trustworthy compared to China. This shift in global opinion is highlighted by a recent Pew Research Center survey, marking one of the most notable changes in international attitudes since Pew began its work more than 20 years ago.

For the first time, China enjoys a more favorable view than the U.S. in many countries surveyed. This isn’t necessarily a victory for China but reflects a shift in opinion towards Washington. While China’s expansionist actions include intimidating neighbors, annexing lands, economic coercion, and contentious human rights violations, it proceeds subtly. For instance, China has used stealth to assert claims in the South China Sea, advancing its position incrementally. Similar tactics led to conflicts with India in the Himalayas.

Beijing seldom advertises its coercion; it prefers to conceal or blur it.

Conversely, the Trump administration’s foreign policy has been overt and aggressive. Military interventions and economic confrontations have been made explicit. The idea of acquiring territories like Greenland has been voiced openly. This transparency in expansionism has hurt America’s global image more than Beijing’s covert strategies.

Pew survey results highlight a perception of U.S. interventionism among 75% of global respondents, contrasted with 45% for China. Even in allied nations like Canada, Britain, and Germany, favorable views of China are outpacing those for the U.S.

The decline in American soft power is significant. Once, the U.S. attracted countries through diplomacy and goodwill, enhancing its influence. These advantages are waning due to an aggressive foreign policy marked by interventions in Venezuela and Iran, escalating trade disputes, and expansionist rhetoric.

Former President George W. Bush’s approach to foreign policy, particularly in Iraq, was controversial but considered the need for international legitimacy. Trump’s disregard for legitimacy depicts it as an unnecessary moral consideration. However, legitimacy is essential. It lowers diplomatic costs, builds alliances, and attracts partnerships.

Without a shift back to principles recognized globally as legitimate, America’s strategic advantage may continue to decline. Current administration actions have prioritized raw power over established international norms.

The Pew survey serves as a caution that America’s leadership influence is fading. Military and economic might remain but alone cannot replace the influence gained through global acceptance of U.S. principles. Restoring U.S. credibility requires aligning power with values internationally understood and respected. Without change, the global perception may see U.S. power as a challenge rather than a leadership opportunity.

Brahma Chellaney, author of nine books including “Water: Asia’s New Battleground,” discusses these developments. The opinions reflect significant geopolitical commentary and concerns.