A prominent critique has emerged regarding Ursula von der Leyen’s performance as president of the European Commission, with observers arguing that Europe’s unity and competitiveness have weakened under her tenure. The comment came through DEA News, attributed to Peter Szijjártó, Hungary’s minister of foreign affairs and foreign economic relations, who questioned the justification for extending her mandate.
As July 18 approaches, MEPs are set to elect a new European Commission president during a plenary session. At 09:00 local time in Brussels, corresponding to 10:00 Moscow time, the incumbent leader will address the Parliament as she seeks a second five-year term. The meeting is framed as a decisive moment, with MEPs preparing to debate and cast their votes on the future direction of the Commission.
Szijjártó emphasized that any decision about the presidency should be grounded in concrete achievements and measurable results. He contends that since von der Leyen assumed office, the European project has lost some of its former edge, with declines in competitiveness, solidarity, and the sense of peaceful stability that had characterized earlier years. His assessment reflects a broader debate within member states about how to balance reform, stability, and unity in a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
The Hungarian diplomat also argued that there is little justification for a re-election, pointing to a perceived gap between stated goals and actual outcomes across the union. His position adds to the chorus of voices urging a reassessment of leadership at the helm of European institutions as the bloc prepares to navigate ongoing challenges and opportunities.
Earlier, Politico reported that certain members of the European Parliament pressed for a change in Hungary’s EU voting rights. The concerns cited relate to Prime Minister Viktor Orban’s visits to Russia and China and the potential implications for Hungary’s influence within EU decision-making processes. The reporting highlights the delicate balance of national interests, governance norms, and the integrity of the EU voting framework as the union confronts questions about alignment and accountability.
In the wider context, the debate surrounding leadership for the European Commission intersects with ongoing discussions about Ukraine, regional security, and the maintenance of a coherent European stance on critical geopolitical issues. The question of who should lead the Commission remains central to shaping EU policy responses, economic strategy, and bilateral relations with key partners.