Europeans prefer greater independence from U.S.: survey

The majority of Europeans believe that the continent should pursue a more independent path in the current geopolitical climate, rather than relying on the United States, according to a survey released Wednesday by the German think-tank Bertelsmann Stiftung, reported Xinhua.

The survey, conducted across all 27 European Union (EU) member states and the U.S., found that 63 percent of participants believe it is time for the EU to chart its own course, a significant increase from just 25 percent in 2017.

Also, 73 percent of Europeans want the EU to take a more active role in global affairs to protect its interests amid a shifting world order, according to the survey, which shows that Europeans are re-evaluating the EU's role, as well as the transatlantic relationship.

Despite the shift, Europeans value their partnership with the U.S., particularly with regard to security.

"Transatlantic relations will change significantly, and the America of old will not return," said Isabell Hoffmann, a European expert at the Bertelsmann Stiftung.