Speaking in his first plenary debate as president of the European Council, António Costa said EU leaders pledged to strengthen Ukraine’s position for every scenario. “Peace must be the peace chosen by Ukraine and by Ukrainians. For the sake of Ukraine’s security. For the sake of Europe’s security.” EU Council president reasserted the EU’s support for Ukraine “for as long as necessary, and whatever it takes, for a comprehensive, just and lasting peace.”
He added that EU leaders are fully committed to enlargement, which they consider “the biggest geopolitical investment for peace and security, for our people and our continent.” António Costa said that he was looking forward to working closely with the new US administration “to advance a positive and fair economic cooperation and to work on our shared priorities for prosperity and security. He highlighted that protecting “our own interests…a stable, balanced and predictable trade relationship” is in the interest of both the EU and the US.
President Costa said the EU must strengthen its bilateral relations with third countries to tackle climate action, sustainable development, and poverty reduction. “It is a multipolar world that requires tailored approaches,” he stressed, adding that he will develop relations with South Africa, Central Asia, Brazil, Japan and India to address these challenges.
Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted that the EU needs to change and adapt to a new era of harsh geostrategic competition. She emphasised that the new EU’s “Competitiveness Compass” will focus on closing the innovation gap with Europe’s competitors, fostering decarbonisation and competitiveness, and strengthening economic resilience and security. Concerning transatlantic relations, the Commission’s president said the EU would be ready to negotiate with the US while standing by European principles.
MEPs welcomed the ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, with some advocating for a two-state solution. They stressed the importance of the EU maintaining its geopolitical relevance amid global changes and urged inclusion in peace-making efforts in Ukraine and strengthening defence capabilities.
Several MEPs also noted the need to address illegal migration outside the EU. Regarding EU-US relations, speakers warned that Europe may be a target under the Trump administration, while others were optimistic about the new US leadership. Concerns were raised about threats to European democracy from external forces, alongside a defence of the EU’s green policies in light of the US withdrawal from the Paris Agreement.
