European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been re-elected for a second term, following a strong pledge to advance Europe’s defense and green transition agendas. On Thursday, von der Leyen received 401 votes in favor and 284 against from the European Parliament’s 720 members in a secret ballot.
In her address to the Parliament in Strasbourg, von der Leyen outlined her agenda for the next five years, focusing on prosperity and security amid ongoing challenges such as Russia’s war in Ukraine, global economic competition, and climate change. She emphasized the importance of the “Green Deal” for transforming the EU economy to combat climate change, a key factor in securing the support of Green lawmakers.
Von der Leyen also committed to supporting Ukraine in its conflict with Russia and pledged to establish a “true European Defence Union,” including projects on air and cyber defense. This plan received criticism from the Kremlin, which viewed it as an effort towards “militarisation and confrontation.”
The European Commission is aiming to bolster European defense initiatives in light of Russia’s actions and potential future uncertainties regarding U.S. support. Von der Leyen’s proposals include a legally binding EU target to cut emissions by 90% by 2040 compared to 1990 levels, as well as measures to support European industries in maintaining competitiveness while reducing emissions.
Her re-election ensures stability within the EU’s executive body during a period marked by rising support for far-right and eurosceptic parties within the 27-nation bloc. In the coming weeks, von der Leyen will propose her team of commissioners, who will undergo individual hearings before a final vote later in the year.