Ursula von der Leyen: European Independence in a Dangerous World

Addressing a Dangerous Global Landscape

• ⚠️ The world has become dangerous and transactional, requiring Europe to defend itself and rely on its own capabilities.
• 🚨 The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 served as a critical wake-up call, marking the end of post-war peace.
• 📊 Global economic power is shifting, with Europe and the US losing global GDP share while China's share has significantly increased.

The Imperative of European Independence

• 🚀 This period marks the moment for European independence, a concept previously met with skepticism but now proven achievable.
• ✅ Europe has already demonstrated its capacity for independence in defense and energy sectors, achieving what was once thought impossible.

Achieving Energy Independence from Russia

• 💡 Significant strides have been made in reducing reliance on Russian fossil fuels, with gas, coal, and crude oil imports drastically cut.
• 🎯 Through initiatives like RepowerEU, Russian gas imports fell from 45% to 13%, coal from 51% to 0%, and crude oil from 26% to 2%.

Strengthening European Security and Defense

• 🛡️ Europe must take responsibility for its own security and defense, developing new capabilities to counter modern hybrid warfare threats.
• 📈 After decades of underinvestment, defense spending is increasing, with up to 800 billion euros planned for investments by 2030.

Crucial Support for Ukraine

• 🇺🇦 Supporting Ukraine's defense is a critical act of European defense, with urgent decisions needed on funding.
• 💰 Europe is expected to cover two-thirds of Ukraine's 137 billion euro financial needs for 2026-2027.
• ⚖️ Russian assets will remain immobilized until Russia ends the war and provides reparations for damages.

Freedom Through Independence

• 🕊️ European independence ultimately means freedom to decide, act, and pursue interests without external pressure.
• 🤝 This freedom encompasses the ability to choose democracy and diversity, embodying the distinct European way of life and traditions.
• 🌍 Unity in diversity is highlighted as Europe's strength, making it "unstoppable" when united.