Europe must fight for its future in “a world of imperial ambitions and imperial wars,” Commission president Ursula von der Leyen told the European Parliament in her annual State of the Union address on Wednesday, reports 24brussels.
Addressing MEPs in Strasbourg, von der Leyen outlined a dire state of global affairs. While emphasizing that the EU is fundamentally a project for peace, she acknowledged that “the truth is that the world today is unforgiving.” She asserted that “battle lines for a new world order based on power are being drawn right now,” urging Europe to take a stand.
“This is Russia’s war. And it is Russia that should pay.”
In relation to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, von der Leyen advocated for intensified sanctions against Moscow, including a 19th package aimed at decreasing the EU’s dependence on Russian fossil fuels. Furthermore, she revealed plans to utilize interest from frozen Russian assets to finance a “reparations loan” for Ukraine, reiterating that “this is Russia’s war. And it is Russia that should pay.”
“Every abducted child must be returned.”
Von der Leyen also announced an international summit focused on the repatriation of Ukrainian children, many of whom have been forcibly taken to Russia, declaring that “every abducted child must be returned.”
Drone wall
The Commission president characterized the incursion of Russian drones into Polish airspace on Tuesday night as a “reckless and unprecedented violation” and pledged investments to construct a “drone wall.” She emphasized that “Europe will defend every inch of its territory” and proposed establishing a European semester of defense to monitor member states’ adherence to 2030 defense objectives.
In addressing the conflict in Gaza, she declared that the European Commission would propose the partial suspension of the EU-Israel Association Agreement, along with sanctions targeting extremist Israeli ministers and violent settlers.
Digital and clean tech
Shifting focus from geopolitical concerns, von der Leyen announced plans to “massively invest” in digital and clean technologies. The Commission is set to establish a €1.8 billion fund to bolster European battery production. She responded to critiques regarding the recently agreed trade agreement with the United States, which introduced a 15 percent baseline tariff, asserting that Europe secured the “best possible deal” and underscoring that millions of European jobs rely on transatlantic trade.
On climate issues, von der Leyen urged the fulfillment of environmental goals while supporting European industries. Additionally, she raised concerns about the housing crisis, migration, and the aftermath of summer wildfires ravaging the continent. She concluded her address by advocating for Europe to “break free from the shackles of unanimity” in order to act more decisively.
