Europe stands at crossroads as international order continues to erode
Speaking before the European Parliament, the Commission president cautioned that recent international developments indicate a lasting transformation of the global order rather than a temporary disruption. She stressed that Europe must respond swiftly to these changes while continuing to uphold international law and democratic values.
“We are at a crossroads. Europe prefers dialogue and solutions – but we are fully prepared to act, if necessary, with unity, urgency, and determination,” she said.
She warned that global affairs are increasingly shaped by the use of brute power and argued that Europe must reinforce its own sources of influence. This includes strengthening economic foundations, ensuring the competitiveness of the single market, and investing heavily in technology and innovation.
Turning to rising tensions in the Arctic, she emphasized that Greenland should not be viewed solely through a strategic or resource-based lens, describing it as “above all, home to a free and sovereign people.”
“The future of Greenland is only for Greenlanders to decide,” she said, while reiterating Europe’s cooperation with the United States on Arctic security within NATO. At the same time, she rejected the idea of using security concerns as justification for imposing additional tariffs between allied countries.
“If we are now plunging into a dangerous downward spiral between allies, this would only embolden our very adversaries,” von der Leyen warned.
She also pointed to the EU’s expanding network of global trade relationships, referencing a newly concluded agreement with South American partners and ongoing trade talks with India. According to her, broadening trade ties enhances Europe’s strategic autonomy, resilience, and economic independence in an increasingly uncertain world.
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