Ursula von der Leyen’s Bid for Second Term Focuses on Defense and Climate Policies

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen pledged to establish a European Defence Union, continue green transition efforts, and gain a second term. Addressing the European Parliament, she promised to support Ukraine, criticized Hungary’s PM, and emphasized climate policies to win lawmakers' support before the secret ballot.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen vowed on Thursday to create a 'European Defence Union' and to remain committed to Europe's green transition, while cushioning its industry's burden during her pitch for a second term.

Addressing the European Parliament in Strasbourg, von der Leyen outlined a program aimed at prosperity and security, seeking lawmakers' backing for another five-year term leading the EU's executive body. 'The next five years will define Europe's place in the world for the next five decades. It will decide whether we shape our own future or let it be shaped by events or by others,' she addressed the parliament ahead of the secret ballot on her candidacy.

In addition to pledging support for Ukraine against Russia's invasion, she stressed the importance of investing in defense, citing Europe's liberty is at risk. The former German defense minister committed to establishing a true European Defence Union with major projects on air and cyber defense. Criticizing Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's recent visit to President Vladimir Putin in Moscow as an 'appeasement mission,' von der Leyen gained broad applause from lawmakers. The European Commission is pushing more joint European defense projects in response to Russia's attack on Ukraine and questions about Europe's reliance on the United States.

(With inputs from agencies.)