European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for a significant boost in the European Union’s military spending, warning that “the time for illusions is over.”
Speaking to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, von der Leyen stressed the urgent need for the EU to increase its defense capabilities and create a unified defense structure. She highlighted the recent changes in U.S. policy, particularly after Donald Trump’s return to the White House, as a wake-up call for Europe.
Von der Leyen welcomed the EU’s unanimous agreement on strengthening defense capabilities, saying this was previously unimaginable. She outlined the European Commission’s new plan, which could mobilize up to €800 billion over four years, including €150 billion in loans to EU member states. The plan, which has already been greenlighted by EU leaders, is set to provide concrete proposals ahead of the upcoming European summit.
AFP
