European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned on Monday that Europe’s security is at a critical crossroads, calling for an immediate increase in defense efforts. She emphasized the urgency of accelerating defense measures, stating, “Yes, it is about Ukraine—but it is also about us.”
Von der Leyen’s remarks come ahead of a key meeting in Paris, where European leaders will discuss regional security concerns, including shifting US priorities and the ongoing war in Ukraine. French President Emmanuel Macron will host leaders from several EU countries and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte for crucial talks.
This meeting follows reports that US President Donald Trump had discussed the Ukraine war with Russian President Vladimir Putin, leaving Kyiv and its allies unsettled. Additionally, Washington has signaled that Europe will no longer be its primary security focus as it pivots toward addressing challenges from China.
