Publication

This brief discusses the results of surveys conducted in April and May 2015 that examined public opinion in six European countries, Canada and the US on such issues as collective defense in NATO and the role of the US in defense. The author suggests the results show that while European NATO member states are reluctant for their own countries to defend their allies, they hold great faith that the US will do so. He then argues that this should be of concern for European governments as it not only suggests that there is a lack of mutual solidarity and trust between these countries, but because the willingness of the US to defend Europe should not be taken for granted. Finally, the author also discusses how countries surveyed perceive the threat posed by Russia, highlights how the US remains indispensable to European security, and argues for European countries to contribute to a permanent NATO force in the Baltic countries.