Introduction to the State of the European Union
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, delivered a 73-minute-long speech on the State of the European Union. The speech covered various topics, including irregular migration, natural disasters, online disinformation, and green mobility. However, the main focus was on Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
The Fight for Europe
Von der Leyen stated that "Europe is in a fight" and that the continent is battling for peace. She presented new measures to tighten sanctions on the Kremlin and increase assistance for Ukraine. These efforts have gained urgency due to Donald Trump’s unpredictable diplomacy.
Fresh Sanctions on Russia
The next round of EU sanctions will target the "shadow fleet" used by Moscow to bypass the price cap on seaborne oil. The sanctions will also focus on "third countries" that enable the circumvention of economic restrictions. Von der Leyen noted that the Commission is exploring ways to speed up the phase-out of Russian energy, which the EU still buys despite the ongoing war.
The Roadmap to End Russian Energy Purchases
In the spring, the Commission presented a roadmap to end all purchases of Russian energy by 2027. However, von der Leyen is already proposing an amendment to this plan, likely due to pressure from the White House. The US is pushing Europeans to cut off energy ties with Moscow and apply secondary tariffs on China and India, which are major clients of Russian crude oil.
Coordination with the US
Von der Leyen held a phone call with US Vice President JD Vance to ensure a "unified front on sanctions." The EU’s sanctions envoy, David O’Sullivan, also met with US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to discuss coordination on sanctions. Bessent stated that "all options remain on the table" to support peace negotiations and that the US is willing to take strong measures against Russia.
Reparations Loan for Ukraine
Von der Leyen proposed a new loan for Ukraine, using the windfall profits generated by Russia’s frozen assets. The loan would help Ukraine cover its budgetary and reconstruction costs. The Commission has already worked on capturing the windfall profits to finance an extraordinary G7 loan worth $50 billion.
The Drone Alliance
The EU will also ramp up military aid to Ukraine, including a new program called "Qualitative Military Edge." This program will channel investment in the capabilities needed by the Ukrainian armed forces. Additionally, the EU will launch a "Drone Alliance" with Ukraine, providing €6 billion from the G7 loan to boost Ukraine’s high-tech edge in the sector.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ursula von der Leyen’s speech highlighted the EU’s commitment to supporting Ukraine and tightening sanctions on Russia. The proposed measures, including fresh sanctions, a reparations loan, and a drone alliance, aim to increase pressure on the Kremlin and provide assistance to Ukraine. The EU’s efforts are coordinated with the US, and the bloc is willing to take strong measures to support peace negotiations. The situation remains complex, but the EU’s stance is clear: Ukraine’s security is Europe’s security, and together, they can achieve lasting peace for the continent.
