Trump Claims Europeans “Like” Him Despite Low Approval Ratings
President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Europeans support him, even as recent polling shows his approval ratings across Western Europe remain low.
Speaking at a White House event where he was dubbed the “Undisputed Champion of Beautiful Clean Coal,” Trump signed an executive order directing the Department of Defense to purchase electricity from coal-fired power plants.
The move is intended to support the struggling coal industry and reinforce his administration’s emphasis on fossil fuels and domestic energy production.
During his remarks, Trump sharply criticized wind turbines, particularly those in Europe. He argued that wind power projects lose money rather than generate it.
“You’re supposed to make money with energy, not lose money with energy,” Trump said. He described turbines as ineffective and damaging to Europe’s landscapes, claiming they have altered scenic areas beyond recognition.
Trump suggested that his energy stance may be unpopular among some European leaders. However, he maintained that ordinary citizens support him.
“You know who likes me over there? The people like me over there,” he said. “They know I’m right.”
Polls Tell a Different Story
Recent surveys indicate that Trump’s popularity in Western Europe is limited. A January YouGov poll measuring public opinion in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Spain found that no country recorded more than 19 percent favorable views of the U.S. president.
Denmark showed the lowest support, with only 4 percent expressing a favorable opinion and 94 percent holding an unfavorable view.
The findings highlight a significant gap between Trump’s public claims and measurable public sentiment overseas.
Wind Power Debate
Wind turbines generate electricity by converting wind energy into power, providing a renewable alternative to fossil fuels. Supporters argue they reduce carbon emissions and strengthen long-term energy security. Critics counter that wind projects can be costly and, in some cases, contribute to higher electricity prices.
Energy costs have become a politically sensitive issue in Europe in recent years, particularly following supply disruptions and price spikes. While some households have faced higher bills, renewable energy remains a central component of European climate policy.
Trump also accused China of dominating the wind turbine market, claiming the equipment is manufactured in China but not widely used there. He said his administration would prioritize traditional energy sources instead.
“We’re not going to do any hopefully for years in this country,” he said, referring to new wind projects.
Broader Energy Agenda
The executive order supporting coal is part of Trump’s broader effort to revive traditional energy industries. Coal production in the United States has declined significantly over the past decade, largely due to competition from natural gas and renewable sources.
By directing federal agencies to purchase coal-generated electricity, the administration aims to stabilize demand and preserve jobs in coal-producing regions.
Trump’s comments on Europe, however, have drawn attention beyond energy policy. While he insists that many Europeans support him, current polling suggests widespread skepticism remains across much of the continent.
