European Commission President: United Europe can be independent Europe. For Ukraine, Moldova, Western Balkans future in our Union

In an extensive speech today before the European Parliament, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the unprecedented challenges facing Europe and the urgent need for unity, responsibility and action. Her message was clear: Europe must fight for its independence, security and future.

The official said that Europe is in a struggle.


'A struggle for an entire continent and in peace. A free and independent Europe, a fight for our values and our democracies. A fight for our freedom and our ability to determine our destiny for ourselves,' said Von der Leyen.


In the context of Russian aggression against Ukraine and tensions in the Middle East, Von der Leyen stressed the importance of a strategically independent Europe.


'This must be our Union's mission. To be able to take care of our own defense and security, to take control of the technologies and energies that will fuel our own economies. To determine what kind of society and democracy we want to live in. A united Europe can be an independent Europe. A larger and stronger Union is a security guarantee for all of us. And for Ukraine, for Moldova, and for the Western Balkans, their future lies in our Union. Let's work together for the next European reunification,' mentioned the official.


She also spoke about the moving story of Sasha, a kidnapped Ukrainian child, who managed to return home thanks to the efforts of his grandmother and the support of the authorities.

The officil emphasized that Europe's future also depends on its economic and technological competitiveness.


'We must massively invest in digital and clean technology. Europe must become a leader in AI and green industries to ensure jobs, prosperity, and independence,' she asserted, highlighting the importance of the single market and investments in European startups.


Additionally, she detailed plans to reduce bureaucracy and protect jobs, such as reducing bureaucratic costs for companies by 8 billion euros and launching an initiative for a digital euro currency.

Von der Leyen also addressed social issues, including children's access to social networks and online safety.


'I strongly believe that parents, not algorithms, should raise our children. Their voice must be heard. That is why we will consider measures for protecting young people online,' she said.


In the context of climate change, the President of the European Commission announced initiatives for adaptation and disaster prevention, including a European firefighting center based in Cyprus, to also support regional neighbors.


'The scale of the damages is enormous. Climate change makes every summer hotter, harsher, and more dangerous. We must radically intensify our efforts regarding resilience and climate adaptations and nature-based solutions,' she emphasized.


Yesterday, in the plenary session of the European Parliament, a historic speech was also delivered by President of the Republic of Moldova Maia Sandu.