Úrsula von der Leyen

The shift in the international order is not only seismic. It is permanent. And the sheer speed of change far outstrips anything we have seen in decades. We now live in a world defined by raw power. And while many of us may not like it, we must deal with the world as it is now. So Europe must speed up its push for independence. We were already moving in this direction, but this moment requires departure from Europe's traditional caution. Whether on our economy or our security, whether on technology or democracy. We have to be in strong shape ourselves if we want to shape the world around us. My speech at the European Parliament → link.europa.eu/vrFgg4

Europe is gathering speed. From security to economy. From defence to democracy. This was my message today at the World Economic Forum. Because our history has so often shown: in crisis there can also be opportunity. The current seismic shifts make it not only possible, but necessary to build a new European independence. A Europe that builds on its assets in capital and innovation. That is matching its ambition with investments and a regulatory framework stimulating growth. And a Europe of partnership, that chooses the world. And the world chooses Europe, as we have seen in Paraguay last weekend. With our EU-Mercosur agreement, creating the largest free trade zone in the world. This is the Europe we are building. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eHXhtTnE

25 year in the making, the EU-Mercosur agreement is here. A shared market of 700 million people – the largest free trade zone in the world. It’s the achievement of a generation, for the benefit of generations to come. And it’s a win-win deal. With billions in tariffs eliminated. And companies on both sides of the Atlantic competing on equal footing. Long live the friendship between our people and our continents. Read more: https://lnkd.in/eMhsdm8s

Territorial integrity and sovereignty are fundamental principles of international law. They are essential for Europe and for the international community as a whole. We have consistently underlined our shared transatlantic interest in peace and security in the Arctic, including through NATO. The pre-coordinated Danish exercise, conducted with allies, responds to the need to strengthen Arctic security and poses no threat to anyone. The EU stands in full solidarity with Denmark and the people of Greenland. Dialogue remains essential, and we are committed to building on the process begun already last week between the Kingdom of Denmark and the US. Tariffs would undermine transatlantic relations and risk a dangerous downward spiral. Europe will remain united, coordinated, and committed to upholding its sovereignty.

This is Europe’s independence moment. We must seize it. And together with the Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026, we will work closely on this. By bolstering our defence. Becoming more competitive. Strengthening ties with partners. And taking forward our work on combat illegal migration. Together with my College of Commissioners, I visited Cyprus today. The experience there makes me look forward to our cooperation over these next six months. Read more: https://lnkd.in/dCNMPAUm

In just over a month, we will mark the fourth anniversary of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine. Today, Russia shows no sign of abating. No sign of remorse. No sign of seeking peace. On the contrary. Over the Christmas break, Russia intensified its strikes, killing civilians and hitting energy infrastructure. This must end. We all want peace for Ukraine. And for that, Ukraine must be in a position of strength. We will provide Ukraine with a loan of EUR 90 billion for 2026 and 2027. With this support, we make sure that Ukraine can bolster its defence on the battlefield and strengthen its defence capabilities and on the other hand keep the state and basic services running. Above all, it reaffirms Europe’s unwavering commitment to the security, defence, and future prosperity of Ukraine. → link.europa.eu/QrBXHy

The rising number of casualties in Iran is horrifying. I unequivocally condemn the excessive use of force and continued restriction of freedom. The European Union has already listed the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps in its entirety under its human rights sanctions regime. In close cooperation with HRVP Kaja Kallas, further sanctions on those responsible for the repression will be swiftly proposed. We stand with the people of Iran who are bravely marching for their liberty.

António Costa and I visited Jordan, Syria and Lebanon over the past two days. In our meetings with partners, we discussed how to continue reinforcing our cooperation with these countries and the wider region. From regional stability, to economic cooperation, security and beyond. Read more: https://lnkd.in/e4AWMPkk

Today’s Council decision to support the EU-Mercosur deal is historic. Europe is sending a strong signal. We are serious about creating growth, jobs and securing the interests of Europeans consumers and businesses. With Mercosur, we are creating a shared market of 700 million people. And so many new opportunities. Statement → https://lnkd.in/e97Zv8JG

Cyprus captures what is best about Europe. Our ability to combine tradition with innovation. Drawing strength from history as we shape the future. I saw it in Nicosia, one of Europe’s fastest-growing tech hubs. Cyprus has shown leadership across the Mediterranean, from delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza through the port of Larnaca, to the courage of firefighters running towards the flames to save lives and homes. And as a frontline Member State, Cyprus understands the need to build a more secure and more independent Europe. This begins with Ukraine. In our meeting with President Zelenskyy, we reaffirmed Europe’s unity in driving forward Ukraine’s accession to the EU. As a crucial security guarantee in its own right. And a proven path to a more prosperous and stable future for the country. This also was our message to President Sandu of Moldova, whose progress on its EU path is remarkable. Born on Cyprus, Zeno of Citium taught us to meet challenges with clarity and resolve. This is what Europe must do now. Together. My speech at the Opening Ceremony of Cyprus Presidency of the Council of the EU 2026 → link.europa.eu/d7TbWg