Von der Leyen Secures Second Term with Green Support Amidst EU Challenges

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen looks set to secure a second term after receiving backing from Green lawmakers. Her commitment to Europe's green transition while easing its impact on industry was pivotal in gaining their support.

Speaking to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, von der Leyen outlined a program emphasizing prosperity and security. She stressed the importance of the 'Green Deal' to combat climate change, a crucial point for securing Green votes.

Highlighting the geopolitical stakes, von der Leyen emphasized Europe's need to invest in defence, pledging support for Ukraine against Russia and advocating for a 'European Defence Union'. Her criticisms of Hungarian PM Viktor Orban's recent visit to Putin garnered applause from lawmakers.

Von der Leyen also reiterated her climate commitments, promising policies like a legally-binding target to cut EU emissions by 90% by 2040. Additional support measures for competitive industries investing in emission reductions were included.

She needs 361 votes for a second term, with her coalition holding 401 seats. The Green support acts as a safeguard against potential rebel votes from within her coalition. The vote result, expected by 3 p.m. (1300 GMT), will indicate continuity in EU leadership amidst rising far-right and eurosceptic sentiments.

(With inputs from agencies.)