Prague (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen commended Central Europe for its growing strategic significance in the EU and highlighted its position in building new European defence capabilities at a meeting in Prague.
Von der Leyen examined the region’s role during her opening address at the GLOBSEC conference in Prague. “Central Europe is not only geographically at the heart of Europe, but it is also politically and strategically paramount to the future of the European Union,” stated von der Leyen.
What does von der Leyen propose for European defence?
Von der Leyen also called for an absolute rethink of Europe’s security architecture in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which she defined as a major wake-up call. The invasion, she argued, had destroyed many of the EU’s long-standing security assumptions, especially the belief that economic interdependence with Russia would deter competition.
How does von der Leyen view economic interdependence with Russia?
“For decades, many said that economic interdependence was the ultimate source of security. You all know that Europe was purchasing Russian gas. This was considered to be the guarantee that Moscow would never create a new war on the old continent. This was an illusion,” she stated, highlighting the strategy’s failure.
What investment is needed for a stronger European defence?
While acknowledging the important role of the United States in supporting Ukraine, von der Leyen also emphasised that Europe must take more significant responsibility for its defence, noting that “Protecting Europe is first and foremost Europe’s duty”. While NATO remains the basis of collective defence, she called for a “much stronger European pillar” within this framework, claiming that the EU should build the ability to defend itself and deter potential threats.
To accomplish this, von der Leyen highlighted the need for substantial investment and a significant restructuring of the European defence industry. She recalled her intent to appoint a dedicated Defence Commissioner in the next European Commission.
“Our aim must be to construct continent-size defence output,” she explained, emphasising that Central Europe is well placed to lead and benefit from this new focus on defence. You must be at the heart of our Union’s future. I count on you,” von der Leyen added.
