Strasbourg: European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the critical importance of supporting Ukraine during a speech at the European Parliament. She stated that strengthening Ukraine's defense capabilities is vital for securing a real, just, and lasting peace, which in turn would protect Europe.
According to Kuwait News Agency, von der Leyen's remarks came on the eve of an EU leaders' summit, where decisions regarding the financing of Ukraine in the ongoing conflict with Russia are anticipated. She highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting the world's current "dangerous and transactional" state, and emphasized the need for Europe to defend itself and rely on its own capabilities. Von der Leyen described Russia's aggression against Ukraine as a significant wake-up call, urging Europeans not to be defined by external worldviews.
She stressed the necessity for Europe to take responsibility for its own security, describing it as a "must" rather than an option. Von der Leyen pointed out the transformation of Europe's defense industrial base, with defense investments projected to reach EUR 800 billion by 2030, a stark contrast to the EUR eight billion spent over the past decade.
Von der Leyen reiterated that supporting Ukraine is central to European defense, cautioning that Russia's ambitions extend beyond Ukraine, posing a direct threat to Europe's national and economic security. She underscored the need for Europe to determine how to fund Ukraine's resistance, highlighting that Ukraine's financial needs for 2026 and 2027 are estimated at EUR 137 billion, with Europe expected to contribute EUR 90 billion.
In related developments, the European Parliament is set to vote on a draft law banning imports of natural gas from Russia, aiming to reduce Europe's energy dependence. Earlier this month, the EU Commission, with the European Parliament's agreement, approved a gradual ban on Russian gas imports, set to begin in January 2026, with a complete phase-out by 2027.