EU's Fight for Independence: A Stronger Stance Against Global Threats

Tue Sep 23 2025 09:05:04 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In her recent State of the Union address, EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasizes the need for Europe to secure its independence amidst rising threats from Russia, trade challenges, and geopolitical pressures, while announcing support measures for Ukraine and calls for sanctions on Israel.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, highlighted the importance of Europe's independence in her recent State of the Union speech. She called for stronger actions against Russia's ongoing aggression in Ukraine, proposed sanctions against Israel in response to the Gaza conflict, and discussed economic strategies to support Ukraine's war-torn economy. Von der Leyen also defended her economic deal with the U.S. amid criticisms regarding tariffs.

Rise of Geopolitical Tensions

In Brussels, Ursula von der Leyen, the European Commission's President, articulated the urgent need for the EU to assert its independence in the face of escalating threats from Russia and challenges posed by global trade dynamics. In her recent State of the Union address, she outlined a series of measures aimed at securing Europe’s future.

Europe is in a fight for our values and democracy, von der Leyen stated, underscoring a collective commitment to maintain liberty and self-determination against external pressures. She stressed the importance of recognizing that the 'battle lines for a new world order' are being drawn, where Europe must firmly assert its place.

Support for Ukraine

Addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, von der Leyen reiterated that Russian President Vladimir Putin shows no signs of de-escalation. Our response must be clear—more pressure on Russia and more sanctions are essential, she affirmed, echoing the sentiment among EU leaders for collective action against aggressor states.

Plans for additional economic support for Ukraine were discussed, including utilizing frozen Russian assets estimated at nearly €200 billion, which are being held in a Belgian clearing house. The president proposed channeling interest earned from these assets to bolster Ukraine's economy.

Changes in Foreign Policy Approaches

In a notable departure from traditional stances, von der Leyen expressed intentions to freeze some financial support to Israel, advocating for trade restrictions due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, signaling a shift in the EU’s foreign policy focus. This must stop for the sake of humanity, she stated emphatically.

Tariff Negotiations with the U.S.

Amidst criticism over her tariff negotiations with the U.S. under former President Trump, von der Leyen defended the agreement, highlighting the significance of the transatlantic relationship for millions of European jobs. She articulated the need for stability in trade relations, asserting that I will never gamble with people’s jobs and livelihoods.