EU Faces Multiple Threats: Urgent Call for Independence and Action

Mon Sep 15 2025 14:52:07 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a powerful address, Ursula von der Leyen highlights the challenges facing Europe amid Russian aggression, global trade issues, and calls for independence while proposing new measures to support Ukraine and address concerns over the Gaza conflict.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the pressing threats to Europe from Russia and other global powers, stressing the need for the EU to assert its independence. In her latest State of the Union address, she announced new initiatives to aid Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict and proposed sanctions on Israel over the Gaza war, all while addressing trade challenges with the U.S. and promising not to compromise European jobs.

BRUSSELS (AP) — The European Union’s most powerful official warned Wednesday that Europe is battling against a series of threats posed by Russia, new global trade challenges, and major world powers. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen made a strong appeal for Europe to assert its independence.

In her State of the Union speech, von der Leyen announced new measures to assist Ukraine against Russia’s ongoing invasion and called for trade restrictions and sanctions on Israel concerning the Gaza war.

Fight for Values

Europe is in a fight for our values and our democracies. A fight for our liberty and our ability to determine our destiny for ourselves. Make no mistake — this is a fight for our future, she stated in Strasbourg, France.

Von der Leyen explained that battle lines for a new world order are being drawn and urged that the EU must fight for its place amidst global powers that may be hostile. This must be Europe’s independence moment, she asserted.

Russian Aggression and Sanctions

Regarding Russia’s war on Ukraine, now ongoing for four years, she noted that President Putin shows no sign of ending the conflict. We need more pressure on Russia to come to the negotiation table and more sanctions, she declared, emphasizing that the EU is coordinating new sanctions targeting Russia’s energy revenues.

Poland's recent experience of multiple drone incursions was also highlighted, condemning the violations of European airspace as reckless.

Support for Ukraine and Gaza

Von der Leyen indicated that tackling Ukraine’s economic challenges could be facilitated through the use of frozen Russian assets amounting to €200 billion held in Europe. She also proposed establishing a drone alliance to counteract threats effectively.

In a significant shift in stance, she urged freezing financial assistance to Israel and imposing sanctions due to the devastating humanitarian situation in Gaza, advocating for a humanitarian response for civilians.

Trade Relationships

In addressing concerns about the tariff deal with U.S. President Donald Trump, von der Leyen emphasized the importance of the transatlantic relationship and assured that she values European jobs and livelihoods over anything else.

As Europe navigates these challenging dynamics, von der Leyen's address underscores the urgent need for unity and decisive action.