Ursula von der Leyen underscored in clear terms that Vladimir Putin must be defeated, aligning Europe with a steadfast stance in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and reinforcing a vision where democratic values, human rights, and shared European principles guide responses to aggression. The message was delivered with an emphasis on safeguarding national self-determination, the sanctity of borders, and the international rules that structure peaceful coexistence across the continent, as the crisis continues to unfold.
Speaking at the Strategic Summit in Bled, Slovenia, the European Commission President outlined a strategic approach for Europe and its partners. She asserted that Moscow cannot prevail in this crisis if European solidarity remains intact and if the continent remains committed to upholding fundamental freedoms, sovereignty, and the right of nations to choose their own path. The focus was on ensuring that the war and the broader conflict do not erode the core principles that anchor the European order, and on preventing any escalation that could threaten regional stability and international norms.
Her remarks highlighted the necessity of a unified, rule-based response designed to curb Russia’s leverage, including energy-related pressures that have been used as a tool of coercion. The aim is to neutralize what she described as a coercive capability by reinforcing democratic resilience, diversifying energy supplies, and sustaining long-term economic and strategic autonomy. This approach seeks to maintain stability and provide Ukraine with durable support, while reassuring partners across the continent that collective action remains credible and effective in the face of aggression.
Von der Leyen advocated strengthening cooperation among democratic states, especially those in Europe’s neighborhood, as a central pillar of the strategy. She stressed that the most effective counterweight to autocratic influence is a robust, united Europe that defends shared values, rules, and institutions. The emphasis extended to regions in the Balkans, where democratic consolidation and strong governance are viewed as essential for regional peace and security, as well as for reinforcing the credibility of the European project on the global stage.
Overall, the speaker called for sustained vigilance and proactive engagement to defend the world order based on universal rules. By boosting democratic resilience, aligning security and energy policies, and maintaining unwavering support for Ukraine, the European Union aims to deter aggression, safeguard borders, and uphold the principle that peace is built through coordinated, values-driven action rather than through coercion or intimidation. The strategic outlook remains focused on protecting democratic freedoms, reinforcing international alliances, and ensuring that Europe remains a leading force in promoting a stable, rules-based international system.