The year 2025 was marked, in French public opinion, by a strong presence of international and national political leaders. According to a ranking measuring the perceived impact of public figures, conducted by Ifop for TF1-LCI, Donald Trump He topped the list of figures who most impressed the French, with 49%. The American president, who has once again become central to international news due to his persistent political influence and his positions on conflicts and the global economy, largely dominated the debates.
The conflict in Ukraine is at the heart of concerns
In second position, Volodymyr Zelensky garnered 35%. The Ukrainian president remains a major figure in European and international news, due to the continuation of the war in Ukraine and his repeated calls for military and financial support from Western countries.
Vladimir Putin occupies third place with 31%. The Russian president continues to have a profound impact on French public opinion, both through his direct responsibility in the Ukrainian conflict and through his strained relations with the European Union and the United States.
Religion, diplomacy and domestic politics
In fourth position is Pope Leo XIV, with 22%. His election and his first stances on social, migratory and geopolitical issues have generated considerable interest in France, a country historically marked by the debate on the place of religion in the public sphere.
Emmanuel Macron comes in fifth position with 19%. Even when criticized, the French president remains a central figure in national and European political life, notably because of his diplomatic role in international crises and the reforms carried out in France.
The Middle East and Europe as a backdrop
Benjamin Netanyahu ranks sixth with 16%. The Israeli Prime Minister continues to polarize international opinion, particularly due to the security situation in the Middle East and Israel's relations with its Western partners.
With 15%, Giorgia Meloni and Sébastien Lecornu are tied. The Italian Prime Minister has established herself as an influential figure in Europe, particularly on migration and budgetary issues, as noted by Euronews and the Financial Times. For his part, the former French Minister of the Armed Forces has gained visibility through defense matters, European rearmament, military support for Ukraine, and, of course, his appointment as Prime Minister.
Emerging figures, but with a more limited impact
Javier Milei, the Argentinian president, received 6%. His ultraliberal economic stance and controversial statements resonated somewhat in France.
Finally, Ursula von der Leyen closes this ranking with 4%. The President of the European Commission, although very present in the structuring decisions of the European Union, seems to have a more discreet impact and above all is unpopular with the French public.
A reflection of French concerns in 2025
This ranking illustrates a year largely dominated by geopolitical issues, armed conflicts, and international balances. It demonstrates the importance the French place on figures embodying power, war, diplomacy, and major political transformations, within a global context marked by instability and strategic realignments.
