Strasbourg: On Wednesday, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) engaged in a critical debate regarding the outcomes of the December EU summit, with a focus on Ukraine, EU-US relations, and the European Union’s global role. This session featured addresses from Presidents Ant³nio Costa and Ursula von der Leyen.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ant³nio Costa, in his inaugural plenary debate as president of the European Council, emphasized the EU’s commitment to strengthening Ukraine’s position across all potential scenarios. He stated that peace must be determined by Ukraine and its citizens, underscoring the EU’s support for Ukraine’s security and, by extension, Europe’s security. Costa asserted the EU’s readiness to support Ukraine indefinitely to ensure a comprehensive, just, and lasting peace.
Costa highlighted the EU’s dedication to enlargement, describing it as a significant geopolitical investment for peace and security in Europe. He expressed optimism about collaborating with the new US administration to foster positive and equitable economic cooperation, emphasizing the importance of a stable, balanced, and predictable trade relationship for both the EU and the US. Costa also stressed the need to fortify bilateral relations with third countries, addressing climate action, sustainable development, and poverty reduction.
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, addressed the necessity for Europe to adapt to a new era characterized by intense geostrategic competition. She introduced the EU’s new ‘Competitiveness Compass,’ aimed at bridging the innovation gap with global competitors, promoting decarbonization, enhancing competitiveness, and bolstering economic resilience and security. Von der Leyen reiterated the EU’s willingness to negotiate with the U.S. while upholding European principles.
MEPs responded positively to the ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, with several advocating for a two-state solution. They emphasized the need for the EU to maintain its geopolitical influence amidst global shifts, with some stressing the importance of Europe’s participation in peace-making efforts in Ukraine and the reinforcement of its defense capabilities. Additionally, MEPs addressed illegal migration, particularly by tackling the issue beyond EU borders.
Regarding EU-US relations, speakers expressed concerns about Europe being targeted under the previous US administration, while others welcomed the new leadership. Concerns were also raised about the potential threats to European democracy from external forces, with some MEPs defending the EU’s green policies in response to the US’s exit from the Paris Agreement.