Ursula von der Leyen

Policy topics Ursula von der Leyen is active on

What Ursula von der Leyen has said (80)

• 2026-07-30 “E-001044/2026 Reply The division of competences between the EU institutions is enshrined in the Treaties. In respect of CFSP, Article 24 TEU clearly prescribes that “the common foreign and security policy is subject to specific rules and procedures”. On the one hand, it is for the European Council to define the general political direction and priorities of the Union and for the Council to define the policy of the Union vis-à-vis third countries and international organisations. Specifically, the European Council shall provide the Union with the necessary impetus for its development and shall define the general political directions and priorities thereof (Article 15(1) TEU), while the Council shall carry out policymaking and coordinating functions (Article 16(1) TEU). Specifically regarding common foreign and security policy, this shall be defined and implemented by the European Council and the Council (Article 24(1), second subparagraph TEU, and further elaborated in Articles 26 and 29 TEU). On the other hand, it is for the Commission to ensure the external representation of the Union (Article 17(1) TEU) vis-à-vis third countries, with the exception of common foreign and security policy, for which Article 27(2) TEU provides that the High Representative shall represent the Union, and other cases provided for in the Treaties. In the exercise of their powers, the EU institutions are bound by Article 13(2) TEU. Under that provision, each EU institution is to act within the limits of the powers conferred on it by the Treaties, and in conformity with the procedures, conditions and objectives set out in them. That provision reflects the principle of institutional balance, characteristic of the institutional structure of the European Union, a principle which requires that each of the institutions must exercise its powers with due regard for the powers of the other institutions. Once a position on a foreign policy matter has been agreed in the Council, all Member States and institutional actors are bound to uphold and defend this position on the international scene.”
  EU competences on foreign affairs
• 2026-07-30 “E-000192/2026 Reply On 18 December 2025, the European Council agreed to provide a loan to Ukraine of EUR 90 billion for the years 2026-2027, based on EU borrowing on the capital markets and backed by the EU budget headroom (EUCO 24/25). The European Council agreed also that, by means of enhanced cooperation, any mobilisation of resources of the Union's budget as a guarantee of this loan would not have an impact on the financial obligations of the Czech Republic, Hungary and Slovakia. The European Parliament and the Council adopted Regulation (EU) 2026/467 of 24 February 2026 implementing enhanced cooperation on the establishment of the Ukraine Support Loan for 2026 and 2027, as well as Regulation (EU) 2026/468 of 24 February 2026 amending Regulation (EU) 2024/792 establishing the Ukraine Facility. The Council later adopted Regulation (EU) 2026/469 of 23 April 2026 amending Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2020/2093 laying down the multiannual financial framework for the years 2021 to 2027. According to Article 24(1) of Regulation (EU) 2026/467, in order to finance the assistance under the Ukraine Support Loan, the Commission will be empowered, on behalf of the Union, to borrow the necessary funds on the capital markets or from financial institutions under the diversified funding strategy referred to in Article 224 of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509. Therefore, Member States participating in the enhanced cooperation will not provide direct contributions to the loan nor increase their debt burden for this purpose. According to Article 22 of Regulation (EU) 2026/467, the Union may provide a borrowing costs subsidy to Ukraine to cover the costs arising from the borrowing, if so requested by Ukraine. In accordance with Article 1(2) of Council Regulation (EU) 2026/469, debt service costs are to be covered by budget availabilities, first under existing budgetary ceilings and subsequently under other special instruments. If these are not sufficient, the Ukraine Support Loan Instrument may be mobilised over and above the ceilings of the multiannual financial framework in the context of the budgetary procedure. 2 It is not possible at this stage to determine the amount of the borrowing costs subsidy or whether the special instrument will be mobilised during the budgetary procedure for 2027, nor the amount, and therefore it is not possible to provide a breakdown by Member State. Contributions from Member States participating in the enhanced cooperation would in any case be provided in accordance with Council Decision (EU, Euratom) 2020/2053 on the system of own resources of the European Union and Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 609/2014 on the methods and procedure for making available the traditional, VAT and GNI-based own resources and on the measures to meet cash requirements, in particular Article 11 thereof. As stated in Article 4(4) of Regulation (EU) 2026/467, Member States not participating in the enhanced cooperation will be entitled to an adjustment of such debt service costs. For the purpose of repaying the loan, Article 20(j)(i) of Regulation (EU) 2026/467 establishes that the receipt of cash by Ukraine for war reparations, indemnities or any financial settlement from Russia would constitute a repayment trigger of the loan by Ukraine up to the amount of such settlement. Moreover, Article 1(1) of Council Regulation (EU) 2026/469 makes it possible to mobilise a guarantee for the provision of the financial assistance under Regulation (EU) 2026/467 over and above the ceilings of the multiannual financial framework. Such a guarantee is aimed at ensuring that the necessary resources are always available in time to allow the Union to meet all of its financial obligations towards its creditors, as stated in Recital (4) of Council Regulation (EU) 2026/469. In the event that the guarantee is called, in part or in full, which cannot be determined at this stage, contributions from Member States would be provided in accordance with Council Decision (EU, Euratom) 2020/2053 on the system of own resources of the European Union and Council Regulation (EU, Euratom) No 609/2014 on the methods and procedure for making available the traditional, VAT and GNI-based own resources and on the measures to meet cash requirements. As in the case of debt service costs, and in line with Article 4(4) of Regulation (EU) 2026/467, Member States not participating in the enhanced cooperation will be entitled to an adjustment of a call on the guarantee.”
  EU-Ukraine relations · Russia-Ukraine conflict (10th term)
• 2026-07-15 “Volodymyr, thank you for your warm welcome. I am still so very moved by this morning's ceremony. And by the honour of receiving the Order of Europe. It means a lot to me to be back in Kyiv. In recent weeks and months, Russia has intensified its air attacks on your beautiful capital. And on many other Ukrainian cities. So my presence and the presence of other leaders here today carries a simple message. The EU stands with the brave people of Ukraine. Russia may have darkened your skies with smoke. But no one is fooled. No cloud of smoke can hide the reality on the battlefield. Russia's momentum is weak. Ukraine, on the other hand, continues to resist. Every strike only strengthens your people's determination to be free. And our resolve to support you and Ukraine any way we can, for as long as needed. I want to mention three points. My first point is about how we are teaming up to protect your skies. We have just launched our defence partnership. At its heart is our new Drone Deal. What is this about? Very concretely. This new cooperation will be built around joint ventures. With targeted technology transfers, expertise and investment in dual use sectors in Ukraine. The goal is to bring together the best of the Ukrainian and EU drone ecosystems: That is Ukrainian ingenuity, tested every day on the battlefield. And EU industrial strength, able to produce at speed and at scale. We will not only develop the next generation drones and counter-drone systems. Crucially, we will manufacture them faster than ever before. So that Ukraine gets what it needs now. And Europe as a whole builds the capabilities it might need for tomorrow. This is just the beginning. We are paving the way for much more. Because we want to apply this same model of cooperation to other capabilities. Including, for example, missiles and air defence systems. And we will keep on deepening the integration of our defence industries, on both sides. In the very same way we are integrating our markets. By removing barriers - by aligning our standards - as quickly as possible. From defence procurement to the protection of intellectual property. So that our industries can work together seamlessly. This is why we are also exploring how to strengthen key defence supply chains. Down to the smallest, most essential components. Because defence industries will increasingly be judged by their ability to sustain themselves over time. And we must rise to that challenge as it is a central pillar of our Union's readiness. All of this is backed by serious financial support. Our 90 billion EUR Ukraine Support Loan is now fully at work. More than a third will be invested in defence products for Ukraine this year alone. On 30 June we disbursed the first military assistance package – this time for drones only. That is the largest drone support package globally. And today, I am glad to announce a new disbursement of 1 billion EUR for drones to help clear your skies. Rest assured that much more is coming. Because we have just approved a 10 billion EUR disbursement plan. For more drones, missiles and fighter aircraft. So as I said, this is really just the beginning. Volodymyr, my second point is on accession. Last month, we opened the first cluster, on Fundamentals. It was a historic breakthrough. And now, only a few weeks later, we have opened another one. Cluster 6, on External Relations. And it is not any cluster. This one has a special meaning. It is about how we see the world. How we act in the world. How we defend our values and our interests. Of course, no country could possibly understand what is at stake better than Ukraine. You are preparing for your future as a Member State of our Union. But the truth is, your actions are already shaping the future of our entire continent. And the optics of geopolitics for decades to come. So this opening carries a special meaning. On external relations, Ukraine is definitely acting as a future Member State of our Union. One we are infinitely proud of. Volodymyr, this will stand as an important part of your legacy. So let me congratulate you once again. And now of course the reform effort continues across the board. So that we can open many more clusters, as quickly as possible. Rest assured that the Commission, and me personally, we will stand fully by your side throughout this process. Ready to support you, every step of the way. My last point is on preparations for the winter. Volodymyr, summer is beautiful here. And I cannot wait to come back in a time of peace. But we will not forget the winters Russia has inflicted on Ukraine and its people. The Kremlin has tried to freeze your people into submission. Winter after winter, it failed. It has failed because of the extraordinary resilience of the Ukrainian people. And because Europe has stood by your side. Since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion, the EU has invested over 4 billion EUR for winterisation and energy. Including 920 million for this year only. Just to keep Ukraine's energy system running in harsh times. And as we prepare for another winter, our support continues. We are helping repair, rebuild and strengthen Ukraine's energy infrastructure, according to our well-oiled plan. Whatever happens, this winter of 2026, we will do our utmost to keep light and heats on in Ukrainian homes. As always, and forever, you can count on us. Slava Ukraini.”
  EU-Ukraine relations
• 2026-07-15 “President Zelenskyy, dear Volodymyr, Madam First Lady, dear Olena, Fellow leaders, Your Excellencies, Distinguished guests, It is a great honour to be back in Kyiv on this very special Day of Ukrainian Statehood. President Zelenskyy, dear Volodymyr, I want to thank you personally for the great privilege you are bestowing on me with this first-ever Order of Europe. And there is nowhere else in the world I would rather be for this occasion than here in St Michael's Square. Because this Square is a living testament to this great nation and its unbreakable spirit. From the golden dome of the monastery behind me to the monument to Princess Olga – it symbolises Ukraine's iconic and central place in Europe's culture and history. From the memorial to the victims of Holodomor to the Wall of Remembrance for the Fallen – it speaks to Ukraine's struggle and sacrifice. Its eternal fight for freedom and for liberty. This yearning for freedom runs deep in the history and in the very soul of Ukraine. We see it every single day. And it is this same fire that has always burnt bright in Europeans – right across our continent and right across generations. The tragic, complex – and even miraculous – histories of European nations fighting for freedom – are woven together. This patchwork is the fabric of our continent – and of our European Union. And Ukraine is an integral part of that story. In that sense – in fact in every sense: Ukraine is Europe. And Europe is Ukraine. Dear friends, Today, Ukraine's fight is not only a fight for your own freedom. It is an existential fight for Europe's freedoms – for its values, its self-determination. For its moral and geographical independence. This is why – since the start of Russia's war of aggression, – I promised you that Europe would be at your side. And I promised you that I would be here as often as possible to show that solidarity in person. We have come a long way since then. This is now my 11th visit since the start of the invasion. There are countless moments from those trips that I will never forget as long as I live. I think almost every day of the harrowing visit to Bucha, seeing the scale of evil and barbarity unleashed on Ukraine. I think of the weight of history we felt at the Antonov Airport in Hostomel, where a handful of Ukrainian heroes saved an entire nation – perhaps even an entire continent. I think also of the emotions of Europe Day in front of St Sophia's Cathedral. I think of the very first visit of the entire College of Commissioners to Kyiv. But there is one image that is burnt in my memory, even if I did not see it with my own eyes. And it is from a small village in the Kharkiv region named after the great Ukrainian philosopher, Hryhorii Skovoroda. His writings have a deep legacy. They show us that the true meaning of our existence is our spirit, our heart and our liberty of thought. Over the centuries, they have taught us that a nation's spirit and inner freedom can survive even the greatest oppression and suppression. And exactly 300 years after his birth – on a fateful morning in May 2022 – he showed that to us one more time. Because throughout the previous night, Russia cowardly and callously targeted the Hryhorii Skovoroda Museum – his former home in the middle of the village. In doing so, it was not just a calculated and targeted missile hit on the museum's building. It was a direct attack on Ukraine's culture and history. An attempt to destroy its soul, its identity, the very idea of its existence. And above all, it was an attempt to subdue the fight for freedom. As the sun rose after the destruction of the night, almost nothing was left of the museum. Only one item survived: the statue of the great writer himself. Among the rubble and ashes – there stood the giant Skovoroda, tall and proud. A defiant symbol that Ukraine's freedom will never be diminished – let alone vanquished. That image is a powerful reminder that our inner freedom – both Ukraine's and Europe's – can never be taken away. And they can never be divided. And this is why we must continue to fight for it – together every single day. And you can count on Europe to do just that, my friends. People of Ukraine, You are not only fighting for your own future but for the security of our entire continent. The courage of your soldiers has helped shift the momentum on the battlefield. Yes, to defend your homeland but also to protect the values on which Europe was built. Europe has so much to learn from you. About the ingenuity of your defence industry. About the speed with which innovation moves from the front line to production. About your ability – under the most difficult circumstances – to adapt, innovate, and build the capabilities that modern warfare demands. Every day, Ukraine is making Europe stronger. And this is why today I say: Ukraine has – in many ways – gone from being a buyer to a net security provider for Europe. And that also entails a new way of working together. And that is why I am delighted to launch, together with you, Volodymyr, a new EU-Ukraine Defence Industrial Partnership. What we are signing today is our very own Drone Deal. Over recent months, Ukraine has signed such drone deals with several countries, from Europe to the Middle East. This recognises the interest in Ukraine's battlefield experience. The knowledge you have gained on how to work drone and anti-drone systems is truly unique. From the technology and production of the drones to the supply chains needed to sustain the capacity. Or crucially to the knowledge on using radar systems, ground stations or sensors. We must tap into this together. Because we know the threats that Europe faces in this area – we have seen incursions and alerts across many Member States. Events here and around the world have shown us the importance to our security of being able to deploy battle-proven drone systems. At scale and at speed. In Europe, we already have huge technological and industrial capacity that can be deployed. And we have safe and secure production sites that can help to scale up. But we do not have the battle-tested knowledge and expertise that Ukraine has forged. So the point I am making is that we need to combine our strengths. Together, we can work on joint production. On making all of the components of the system work. And we can provide both defence industrial bases with the impetus needed to decisively step up investment and production. This deal will bring together Ukrainian ingenuity and Europe's industrial scale. And with this deal our message is clear: now is the time to invest in Ukraine. Because this means to invest in Europe. And to invest in our common security and our common future. People of Ukraine, Seeing the European flag next to your Ukrainian flag flying here in St Michael's Square brings this to life. And it evokes so many emotions for me. The European flag, a symbol of hope – next to yours – and light during a war of despair and darkness. Across Europe we see this flag flying proudly in thousands of cities and villages – from Gdansk across your border to Ghent. From Cork to Copenhagen. From Tallinn to Torino. We sometimes forget how miraculous that is. How improbable it would have been to most people only a handful of decades ago. And we sometimes do not talk enough about what that flag really means to us: Peace. Prosperity. Liberty. Democracy. Solidarity. Values. A commitment to having each other's back. A feeling of belonging to more than just ourselves – wherever we are from. It is truly unique – not only in today's world but throughout history. The truth is we may not talk enough about that – we may be too focused on what is in front of us right now. But here in Ukraine, you have not forgotten. In fact, you are the ones fighting for everything that flag symbolises. With a spirit that is almost undefinable. I could not find the right word in English, or German, or French to try to define it. But I have been told there is one in Ukrainian that sums it up perfectly. And that is ‘Nezlamnist'. A spirit that is unbreakable and indestructible. Stoic and unshakeable. This is the founding spirit of Europe. And this is the spirit that Ukrainians show every single day in their fight for freedom. So in accepting this Order of Europe, it is not me bringing Europe or this EU flag to Kyiv on this Statehood Day. Because Europe is already here. And it always will be. This is our common dream. This is our common destiny. And together we will make it happen. Long live Ukraine, and long live Europe.”
  EU-Ukraine relations
• 2026-07-13 “A few months ago, I commissioned the Special Panel on Child Safety Online. Today we are receiving the report. Dear Doctor Melchior, Dear Professor Fegert, I want to thank you and all the members of the Special Panel, for your hard work in the recent months and your skilful steer. It is the evidence we have been waiting for, which you are delivering today. The Panel examined what I believe is one of the greatest challenges confronting today's governments – how to protect our kids online, how we establish a new norm in the future online world. The Special Panel's work has examined the benefits, opportunities and harms of social media algorithms on children. I have been eagerly awaiting your recommendations, and I am looking forward to reading this report. We in Europe believe that parents bring up our kids, and not predatory algorithms. To that end, let me be very clear: social media is not a toy. While ultimately it is up to parents to decide when children get their first smartphones, what we already have is a consensus that there needs to be a start date for the age children can join social media. The status quo, a world where we continue to allow big tech unrestricted access to our children, will only consign another generation to more mental harm, addiction and misery. The data reveal the facts. Across Europe, young people now spend four to six hours per day on screens. Six hours every day – this adds up to twenty years of their life. At the same time, across Europe, almost 60% of young children have experienced emotional or psychosocial problems online. And day and night, parents too well see the consequences of this: loss of sleep, depression, anxiety, cyberbullying, exposure to harmful content. All this is happening while our children's brains are still developing. We cannot expect children to succeed in a system that was never designed with their wellbeing in mind, when they are most vulnerable. I want to raise three points. My first point – the platforms were the architects of these systems, now they must prove that their services do no harm. In Europe, whoever develops a product is responsible for its safety. Car manufacturers must make their vehicles safe. We do not expect children to design their own seatbelts. We do not expect parents to fit airbags at home. And the very same must be true for big tech. This is why we have the Digital Services Act so that providers remove harmful features – addictive algorithms, dark patterns, harmful content, or unwanted contacts. With our DSA, we have already taken strong action – against TikTok's addictive design, and just last week against Meta. Because the rule in Europe is safety-by-design. The platforms have a duty of care to their users, especially to their most vulnerable users. So when a young person reports a problem, providers must respond quickly and effectively. Children's rights must be taken seriously. And companies must be held accountable. So we will continue to uphold our legislation and enforce our rules and change the system where it fails our children. Now to my second point, it is clear we need age-appropriate restrictions to platforms. This is not about whether children can access social media. It is about whether and when social media can access our children. The question is no longer if children face risks online, but what can we do to give children a safer start online. And here, our age verification app is one of the tools to get it done. It is easy to use, privacy preserving, and open source. This is about putting power back into the hands of parents. And that brings me to my third point today. The more we learn, and the more we see the impact on our children, the stronger the argument becomes for a social media start date. Just as we do not give our children keys to the car before they have their licence or let them buy alcohol until they are legally allowed, we need to set the age at which they can legally access social media. This will not be foolproof. And change takes time. It will take time to embed the cultural change that is already taking shape in our society. Just as it took time to outlaw drink-driving, and using seatbelts in cars. Great change never happens overnight, but when it comes to our safety, it is always worth it. And when it comes to social media, the research shows that timing matters. For example, we know that toddlers should have no exposure to screens and digital platforms at all. So no screens under the age of three. Children should only be exposed to social media under supervision – of parents, caregivers or teachers – and time-limited. Childhood is a period of extraordinary and delicate brain development. During this stage, our children need time in the real world. Time to play, to build friendships face-to-face, to make mistakes. Time to shape their own identities, their own personalities, before an algorithm shapes them instead. I believe we need to give our children this time. If we want to protect childhood, we need to start where the risks are greatest. We first need to consider the type of platforms that are harmful to our children. The evidence shows that this is mainly social media platforms, but also other providers with age-inappropriate and addictive features. So think of it as social media plus. And when we have this clearly defined category, I believe we need to consider phased and gradual access for different age ranges. Because childhood will not wait. And once it is gone, we cannot give it back. This report comes during a unique window of opportunity. We have heard from parents, educators, experts, and young people themselves. We have heard the experience from partners like Australia, as well as our Member States. Now we need action at European level. We will carefully review this report and the recommendations. And present a proposal after the summer. Thank you.”
  Age restrictions on children's access to social media
• 2026-07-10 “E-001052/2026 Reply The Council does not have anything further to add to its reply to Written Question E-004612/2025. The Council has not received, and is therefore not examining, any proposals involving the establishment of a capability of the nature described by the Honourable Member. We would also point out that the interpretation of the Treaties does not fall within the Council’s competences.”
  EU political integration · EU competences on defence
• 2026-07-10 “P-001075/2026 Reply It is not for the Council to answer questions concerning the European Council, as the European Council is a separate institution.”
  EU political integration · EU competences on defence
• 2026-07-03 “Thank you, dear Micheál, for welcoming us to your native Cork. Thank you very much for the visit over the last two days and the intense talks we had. And thank you for our visit yesterday evening to the Tyndall National Institute and its semiconductor labs. For me, it perfectly set the tone for the Irish Presidency. At the research and innovation powerhouse that is Tyndall, Europe is bridging a gap we have long struggled with. We have to move from the test to the scale. And that was yesterday also the motto at the visit, where they said they have all the ingredients that are necessary. We have the talent, the innovation, the research and development. We have the infrastructure and the capital, if we get a Capital Markets Union. But what we now need is scale. And I think this, as I said, sets the tone for this presidency. This brings me to our first shared priority. A competitive European economy that is good jobs for Europe. The task ahead is clear. Outside our borders, we must keep moving on diversification. This year has already delivered one trade agreement breakthrough after another. The Irish Presidency will be central to getting our deals with India and Mexico operational at record speed. So that Europe can trade more with trusted partners, that is growing our exports while, very crucially, reducing our dependencies. The more we are diversified, the less we are dependent on a single supplier At home, we must keep building the industrial capacity we need to create jobs and growth, and to better withstand shocks. For this, we have our “One Europe, One Market” Roadmap. As you have said, all three institutions have committed to deliver until the end of 2027. It spans over 18 months. So it is about delivery and urgency. We have several key proposals to see through across the clean and digital transitions. The list is long. So I will highlight just a few of them. On the clean energy side, the Commission will table a new energy package in July. It will include a target to boost electrification in Europe. And the modernisation of our emissions trading system. On the digital side, we have our Tech Sovereignty Package. We need it to strengthen Europe's capacity in tech. From chips to AI. From cloud to language models. Quite a big menu. Then we have a number of horizontal priorities. To make Europe the best place to innovate, invest and grow. We must keep working hard on making life easier for businesses. Your Presidency's leadership will be essential to deliver on our simplification agenda. The famous omnibuses. Six have already reached the finish line, but four must now come to the finish line during this presidency. The same goes for EU Inc, our single rulebook for innovative companies. We should aim for an agreement before the end of this year. Because entrepreneurs have no time to lose. And you are committed to making the Savings and Investment Union a reality. That is very much welcome. We hear it over and over again. We need to end the fragmentation of the capital market, then there is a lot of capital that is available for our startups. And for that, we need the Savings and Investment Union. My second point is security – it underpins everything we do. As a matter of fact, many of the technologies that power our economy are also critical to our security. Semiconductors are a perfect example, which is why Ireland's contribution here is important. Security also means taking more responsibility for our own defence. So, we welcome your decision to increase defence spending by 55% by 2030. During your Presidency, we will continue to advance Europe's Defence Readiness. Given the increasingly threatening landscape, our defence readiness is critical to deter adversaries. This includes building up capabilities through our SAFE program. So far, we have signed in record time loan agreements worth 100m Euro with 10 Member States. This enables Member States to undertake joint defence project through common procurement. Of course, while stepping up on defence in Europe, we continue our support to Ukraine. Already from the EUR 90 billion Ukraine Loan, we have disbursed more than EUR 3 billion in budget support, and the first part of the EUR 6 billion for air defence. At the same time, we are working with Ukraine to build a more structural defence industrial partnership so that we can benefit from their defence industrial innovation. My third point is the next long-term budget. In June, the Council reached an important agreement on the architecture of the next MFF. This is a big step forward. We have now agreed on the architecture. It is set in stone. Now we have to fill the negotiation box. The next step is to match it with the right level of ambition and the right financing. We should aim for a revised negotiation box for the October European Council, including a shared understanding on how we want to finance the next MFF. This is essential so that the next budget is ready to deliver from 1 January 2028. This will require a lot of hard work. We know and we will support you in this endeavour. Ireland successfully brokered an MFF agreement in 2013. And you can do it again. My fourth point is on housing. Europe is facing a housing crisis. A crisis of affordability, access and quality. Our citizens are calling for solutions. And we are responding. Under your Presidency, we aim to launch a European Housing Alliance. And we will convene a high-level European Housing Summit. This is one of the defining social challenges of our time. And our people expect us to deliver. My last point is on enlargement. Ukraine and Moldova have opened their first accession cluster. That is a big step forward. Albania and Montenegro continue to progress. I welcome Ireland's strong support for this merits-based process. Including the intention to complete accession negotiations with Montenegro this year. We have every reason to trust Ireland on this. After all, the historic 2004 enlargement was agreed under an Irish Presidency. And Ireland's own story reminds us why enlargement is one of Europe's smartest investments. When Ireland joined the European Community in 1973, its GDP per capita was around half the European average. Today, it is roughly double. You were catching up; now you are leading the way. There is hardly a more convincing argument for enlargement. So, dear Micheál, thank you again. Ireland has always had a talent for turning ambition into achievement. I am confident your Presidency will do the same for Europe.”
  Free trade agreements (FTAs)
• 2026-07-02 “Taoiseach, dear Micheál, Ladies and Gentlemen, Thank you for such a warm welcome. It is a particular pleasure to join you in this historic Aula Maxima, where both you and Commissioner McGrath were conferred with your degrees. There could hardly be a more fitting place to start your Presidency. Cork City is known for its merchant and rebel past. It is renowned for its independent spirit, its proud identity, and its long history of looking outward. That spirit has always been part of Ireland's story. And for centuries, the Irish spirit has helped shape our continent. From the monks who kept the light of learning burning through the Dark Ages, to today's remarkable artists and storytellers, like Cillian Murphy and Jessie Buckley, who captivate audiences around the world. Because of your pride in who you are and where you come from, the people of Ireland are never afraid of exploring new pathways and embracing the future. You have built one of our Union's most dynamic economies, while remaining true to your values and your sense of community. Time and again, you have shown a willingness to lead, from becoming the first country to ban smoking in the workplace, to the first to legalise same-sex marriage by popular vote. And this is exactly what we need today: the confidence to embrace change while staying true to our values. This is what's so special about the Irish way. You bring people together, find common ground, and quietly get things done. Those qualities have served Ireland well. And they have served Europe well too. When Europe needs to navigate change, Ireland has so often helped to chart the course. Including during your successful Presidencies of the Council. In 2004, Ireland helped herald in the historic enlargement that welcomed ten new members into our European family. And in 2013, you helped deliver a new European budget, Erasmus+, and reform of the Common Agricultural Policy. Ireland has always shown that partnership, pragmatism and positivity can build consensus and move Europe forward. Like the River Lee, which flows through this city before meeting the Atlantic, the strength of our Union is gathered from many streams. Each Member State brings its own history, traditions and voice. And together, they flow towards a shared horizon. So this evening, here where Europe opens out onto the Atlantic, let us look ahead with confidence. For centuries, the same tides that have lapped at Cork's shores have carried people, ideas and friendships across the ocean. May that same spirit of openness and exchange guide us in the months ahead. To Ireland, and to a successful Presidency. Long live Europe Sláinte.”
  EU political integration
• 2026-07-02 “Dear Prime Minister Pashinyan, dear Nikol, It is great to be back in Yerevan so soon. First of all, I want to congratulate you on your electoral victory. These elections have shown, once again, the strength of Armenia's democracy. The spirit of the Velvet Revolution which you led in 2018 is alive and well. Armenia is carrying on the path of democracy, reform, peace, and of a closer partnership with Europe. And I am here to tell you: you can count on us. While Armenia is coming closer to the EU, the South Caucasus is coming closer together. The initialling of the peace agreement last year was a history-making moment. The most consequential step this region has taken in decades. The same goes for the continued normalisation of relations with Türkiye. These decisions required political courage and leadership. And I know their rewards will be immense. Opening borders will transform Armenia's economic future. And it will anchor Armenia at the heart of one of the world's most strategic crossroads. We will stand by you to turn this vision into reality. This is why I announced a new €200 million Global Gateway package for peace through connectivity. With our financial partners, we aim to mobilise up to €2 billion for strategic transport, energy, and digital projects all across the South Caucasus. In Armenia, it could support projects currently under preparation, including border crossing points, and road infrastructure. So, we are building real, physical infrastructure for peace. And at the same time, we are building bridges between people. Therefore, I also announced a €20 million peace-fostering programme. It is aimed at communities living along the borders. We want to support the local economy – the small businesses, the micro businesses – or for example new farming techniques, water management, etcetera. We want to improve everyday lives. And we want to create new opportunities for dialogue between the communities. Our package will help people experience the tangible benefits of peace. So that peace takes root in the hearts and minds of this generation – and the next. Turning now to the situation in your country. I know Armenia is still facing significant economic pressure from Russia. Nothing short of economic coercion, actually. But rest assured: when pressure mounts on our partners, the EU steps up. And I have some announcements here too. First, you will soon receive an additional €18 million to help strengthen and diversify your trade. The funding can, for example, help establish an export promotion agency and boost the export capacity of Armenian businesses. These €18 million are the final part of the €52 million support package we discussed in our phone call in early June. Second, we are going a step further: we are presenting a proposal for Autonomous Trade Measures. They will liberalise almost 80% of Armenian exports to the EU. That means 80% of your trade with us will now be tariff-free. With this, we can re-route products that currently still rely heavily on the Russian market and send them to the European Union Single Market of 450 million consumers. So, this measure will open the European doors to almost 99% of Armenia's fresh fruits, vegetables, and plants that used to be exported to Russia. And it will open the door of the European Union Single Market to more than 90% of your exports of beverages and spirits. In fact, over the past month, we have seen more and more Armenian flowers arriving on our market. I think this is a beautiful symbol of a new chapter in our economic partnership. And this is only the beginning. With these new measures in place, you will have the means to diversify – and to diversify fast. In mid-July, we will deploy experts to Armenia to work directly with your producers, your businesses, and your exporters and help them seize all the opportunities that a privileged partnership with the EU can offer. Prime Minister, dear Nikol, On 7 June, the people of Armenia spoke clearly. They chose democracy. The rule of law. They chose reform and peace. They chose an open, welcoming, and inclusive society. And they chose to partner with the European Union. And together, we must now turn their aspirations into results. You can count on us. Thank you very much.”
  EU-Armenia relations
• 2026-07-01 “President Aliyev, Thank you for your warm welcome. It is good to be back in Baku. It is remarkable city, a place where a rich and ancient heritage meets striking modern architecture. And it is a reflection of the forward-looking ambitions of today's Azerbaijan. I am here today to deepen a partnership that matters greatly to the European Union. And one that has real momentum, as the President just described. But first, let me turn to the most important development in this region in decades. Peace. Let me congratulate you on initiating an historic peace agreement with Armenia. You showed personal leadership in promoting peace and cooperation across the region. And it is creating new opportunities for stability, trust and shared prosperity. The EU strongly supports this process. And we will continue to do so. Together, we can turn peace on paper into peace in practice. That is why we are working here today together. This brings me to my first announcement of today. We want to foster peace through connectivity. Through our Global Gateway Investment Programme, we will invest up to EUR 200 million in grants for transport, energy and digital links across the South Caucasus with the potential to mobilise up to EUR 2 billion in public and private investment. Projects could include the railway connection through Nakhchivan, or developing the Port of Baku. The South Caucasus is one of the world's great crossroads – connecting Europe, the Caspian and Central Asia. Its strategic importance continues to grow. And Azerbaijan has a central role to play. Few countries are as well placed as yours to drive regional cooperation and stability. Azerbaijan tactfully combines its strategic geography with its growing economic, political, and regional influence. This is why we are proposing to launch an EU–Azerbaijan Connectivity Partnership. This goes hand and hand together with a High-Level Connectivity Dialogue, covering transport, energy and digital connectivity. We will also work on the organisation of a Regional Connectivity Investment Conference, preferably right here in Baku. And thus bringing together Europe, the South Caucasus and Central Asia. My second announcement is on a new EUR 20 million peace-fostering programme, together we want to help peace take root in the region, to make the benefits of peace visible in people's everyday lives, those who live in border regions. We will invest in better healthcare, for example with the procurement of ambulances. We will also focus on safety through demining. And we will invest in strong local economies through rural development, water management, precision farming – you name it - and of course support for small and medium enterprises. Let me turn now to energy. It remains one of the strongest pillars of our partnership. In recent years, Azerbaijan has proven to be a reliable trusted energy partner for Europe. We have not forgotten that at the time when Russia weaponised energy and turned off the gas, Azerbaijan stepped up. The Southern Gas Corridor strengthened Europe's energy security, and it is a remarkable success story. And I want to thank you for that. Now we are preparing the next chapter. Azerbaijan is investing in the energy of the future. Such as your plans to develop offshore wind energy in the Caspian Sea. You have both the ambition and the potential to become a hub for clean electricity. This fits perfectly with Europe's own clean transition. So, we see enormous potential to deepen our cooperation. On renewables. On electricity interconnections. And on regional energy networks. We welcome your plans to build a Green Energy Corridor, linking Azerbaijan with the European Union. Greater renewable generation can also free up more gas for export and thus help reinforce regional energy security, by sharing with the neighbours. We very much welcome your suggestion of an electricity cable to Armenia. So, renewables are powering the future of our economies. And here in the South Caucasus, they can also help power peace. Finally, we discussed how to deepen our economic partnership. The EU is already Azerbaijan's largest trading partner and biggest investor. Now we want to build on that. The resumption of discussions on a new comprehensive agreement is an important step. This can open the road for even more trade between Azerbaijan and the European Union, and we will work together to make progress happen. President Aliyev, The European Union believes in a bright future for this region. So let us work together. For a peaceful South Caucasus. For a South Caucasus connected to Europe, the Caspian and Central Asia. And for an ever-stronger partnership between us.”
  EU-Azerbaijan relations
• 2026-06-25 “Prime Minister Tusk, dear Donald, Prime Minister Svyrydenko, dear Yulia, President Costa, dear António, Fellow leaders, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, First of all, I want to thank you, dear Donald, for hosting us. It is wonderful to be here again in Gdańsk, your city, the city of freedom, the city of solidarity. Since the very start of Russia's war of aggression, Gdańsk has always lived up to its reputation. The entire city has mobilised in defence of freedom and in support of Ukraine: 5,000 families hosted Ukrainians in their homes, schools started teaching in Ukrainian and the local government has provided constant support to people on the frontline. The people of Gdańsk are showing that solidarity is not only part of your history, it is part of your character. So, on behalf of Europe, to the people of Gdańsk – I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your generosity. Four decades ago, the people of Gdańsk helped change the course of European history, they showed that freedom could prevail over oppression and they helped open the path to Poland's European future. Today, the people of Ukraine are doing the same. The courage of Ukraine's armed forces has shifted the momentum on the battlefield. Ukraine's defence industry, with Europe's support, is showing that it can out-innovate Russia. Ukraine now produces drones at a scale that matches – and even exceeds – Russia's production capacity. And the determination of the Ukrainian people has shown to the world that their European choice cannot be broken. Now, it is our task to turn that choice into reality. Earlier this month, we opened the first cluster of negotiations with Ukraine. This was a historic moment; a recognition of the remarkable progress Ukraine has already made and a strong signal that Ukraine's future belongs in our European family. Enlargement is more than a process, it is an anchor for Ukraine's future. This first cluster focuses on the fundamentals of our Union – the rule of law, strong democratic institutions, effective public administration –, the foundations on which lasting prosperity is built. It provides a clear roadmap for the reforms ahead and it gives confidence to citizens, businesses and investors alike. As always, accession will remain merit-based, without any question. But if Ukraine continues to reform with the determination it has shown in recent years, its place in the European family is becoming a reality. And Ukraine's European future is already taking shape today. Ukraine joined our ‘Roam Like at Home' scheme earlier this year, it is moving forward on SEPA – which is very important for businesses –, and it is taking steps towards integration in the Single Market. This brings real benefits to Ukrainians today and it sends a powerful message to investors. If you invest in Ukraine, you invest in Europe. Not only in an economy of around EUR 200 billion, but in a future member of a Single Market worth EUR 20 trillion. A market one hundred times larger and one built on the rule of law, legal certainty and the protection of property rights. That is why Ukraine's European path is such a powerful proposition. And that is why now is the time to invest in Ukraine. That leads me to my next point. The prosperous Ukraine of tomorrow requires massive investments today. Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion, the European Union and its Member States have provided more than EUR 200 billion in economic, financial and military support. And with the Ukraine Support Loan, we will provide a further EUR 90 billion over the next two years. Today, we are transferring the first tranche under this loan, EUR 3.2 billion in macro-financial assistance. So you are right, I am happy and proud to announce this disbursement today. And we will start paying the first money of the EUR 6 billion for drone production in the coming days. This, indeed, is solidarity in action. It shows Europe's support for Ukraine is here to stay. At the same time, we continue to call on all our partners to maintain their support, because a strong and independent Ukraine is in all our interests. Our ambition is not only to help Ukraine endure, it is to help Ukraine grow and prosper as a free and European country. That is why the European Union has become the largest provider of investment and risk-sharing support in Ukraine. We are helping cities and towns to rebuild. We are supporting the resilience of the energy sector. We are providing financing to businesses, including in the frontline regions. Now we are taking the next step. At last year's Recovery Conference in Rome, we announced the creation of a European Flagship Fund, the largest equity fund – dedicated to the reconstruction of Ukraine. Today, that Fund is ready to go. It will invest in some of the most strategic sectors for Ukraine's future. From clean energy to infrastructure, to the high-growth companies that will drive Ukraine's economy in the decades ahead. The Fund is backed by the European Union, Poland, France, Germany and Italy. It can mobilise up to half a billion still this year, with the aim of reaching EUR 1 billion over time. Public capital will take the first share of risk. This creates the confidence needed to attract private investment of scale. The message to investors is simple – when you invest in Ukraine, you not only invest in their future, but in the future of Europe. Ladies and Gentlemen, Ukraine's recovery and growth are not only in Ukraine's interest, they are in Europe's interest too. This war has shown how fundamental Ukraine's security is to Europe, not only as a recipient but as a security provider. Ukraine's battlefield experience is unmatched; its defence companies are some of the most innovative in the world. They are developing and producing cutting-edge capabilities, from interceptor drones to jamming systems. These technologies protect Ukrainian lives every day and they are increasingly important for Europe's own security and resilience. That is why deeper integration of our defence industry is so important. We are already seeing what this partnership can achieve. Ukrainian-designed drones being produced in Germany. Fuel for Ukraine's Flamingo missiles will soon be made in Denmark. In other words, we need: Ukrainian ingenuity and innovation and European scale and industrial know-how. That is the mixture that we need to prosper. Ladies and Gentlemen, One year ago, when we gathered for the last Recovery Conference, the situation in Ukraine was dark. Today, the outlook is different. Ukraine has made progress on the battlefield, we have strengthened Ukraine's economic foundations, we have advanced its European path and we have created new opportunities for investment and growth. Ukraine's courage has made this possible and our solidarity has helped make it a reality. The lesson of Gdańsk remains as relevant today as it was four decades ago. Solidarity is the road to freedom. And in that spirit, thank you, Gdańsk and Poland, for your solidarity. Thank you, Europe, for your solidarity. Thank you, Ukraine, for your courage. Slava Ukraini. And long live Europe.”
  EU enlargement
• 2026-06-24 “Ladies and gentlemen, Dear Christian Ehler, thank you for allowing me to join you briefly. It's amazing what you've managed to pull off here at the Decarbon Days innovation festival. And with the Net Zero Valley in Lusatia, you are leading the way in Europe. For decades, Lusatia has been a proud energy-producing region. Generations of workers in the lignite industry have always reliably supplied Germany with electricity. And now, in the face of change, you are rising to the occasion again. You have consciously decided to take the future of your region into your own hands. You have come together, municipalities and businesses, but also science and civil society. And you have led the way in driving the development of clean technologies – all of this in very close cooperation with Europe. That's because you know that clean technologies are the future and they are crucial to Europe's independence. This is the Lusatian way – the way of responsibility. And we can see what this is producing: for example, the GigawattFactory, which combines solar and wind energy with battery storage on a large scale. The development of high-temperature heat pumps for industrial processes. Or let's take the example of research into eco-friendly aircraft engines. All this and much more is evidence that here in Lusatia, the future is in the making. We all know that change is challenging. Competition is fierce and sometimes unfair. Huge efforts are needed to ensure that sustainable innovation, value creation and, above all, new jobs are generated here in Europe – and not elsewhere. In the European Union, we are fully committed to achieving this. To accelerate the development of clean industries, we are making procedures simpler and shortening permitting times. We are stepping up investments, for example with the Battery Booster Facility, worth EUR 1.5 billion. And at the same time, we are stimulating demand for clean technologies in Europe. We are doing so, for example, by leveraging the market power of public procurement. We are introducing a new criterion for public contracts – Made in Europe. After all, public money should benefit European production. Ladies and gentlemen, Yes, all of this is about the economy and about competition. But above all, it's about the people who live here. It's about ensuring they can look to the future with confidence. So let's keep working to turn opportunities into reality. Your commitment in Lusatia is a prime example of this. Many thanks and best of luck for the Decarbon Days.”
  Battery supply chain: EU gigafactory sovereignty vs. reliance on Asian suppliers
• 2026-06-23 “H.E. Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, paid an official visit to Brussels on 23 June 2026 and met with H.E. Mr. António Costa, President of the European Council and H.E. Ms. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission. The leaders welcomed President Tokayev's visit as a strong signal of the growing strategic partnership between the European Union and Kazakhstan at a time of increasing geopolitical importance for connectivity, energy security and resilient supply chains. They reaffirmed their ambition to deepen cooperation under the Enhanced Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (EPCA), that marked 10 years in 2025. The Presidents highlighted the European Union's role as Kazakhstan's leading trade and investment partner and agreed to further reinforce the investment climate and strengthen cooperation in strategic sectors, including those under the EU's Global Gateway strategy for Central Asia, notably critical raw materials, energy, transport, digitalisation and emerging technologies. They underlined the strategic importance of the Trans-Caspian Transport Corridor and welcomed enhanced cooperation under the EU's Global Gateway strategy. The leaders welcomed the signing of the Horizontal Aviation Agreement and the successful conclusion of discussions at negotiators' level on the Visa Facilitation and Readmission Agreements, which will strengthen connectivity and people-to-people ties between Kazakhstan and the EU. The Presidents reaffirmed the importance of cooperation on critical raw materials and committed to advancing the Roadmap for the implementation of the EU-Kazakhstan Strategic Partnership on Sustainable Raw Materials, Batteries and Renewable Hydrogen value chains. They also emphasised reliable energy cooperation, recognising Kazakhstan's role as an important oil and uranium supplier to Europe and the potential for stronger cooperation in renewable and civil nuclear energy. They welcomed the ongoing constructive dialogue on sanctions. The leaders welcomed strengthened cooperation with the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), including the signature of an EIB agreement supporting transport connectivity (EUR 150 million), and an EBRD Memorandum of Understanding for the development of an internationally accredited national chemical-analytical laboratory in Kazakhstan. These initiatives will be implemented in partnership with the EU, in a Team Europe approach. The opening of an EIB office in Astana was further encouraged, as foreseen in the 2025 EU–Central Asia Summit Declaration. The Presidents welcomed the signing of a certificate agreement between Air Astana and Airbus covering up to 50 A320neo/A321neo aircrafts, worth EUR 7.145 billion, as a tangible example of the deepening EU-Kazakhstan cooperation in aviation, innovation, connectivity, and private sector investment. The Presidents reaffirmed their commitment to climate action and the green energy transition while maintaining close dialogue to support competitiveness and economic cooperation. They also welcomed expanding cooperation in education, research and innovation, including through Erasmus+ and Horizon Europe. The European Union recognised Kazakhstan's ongoing political reform agenda and acknowledged the adoption of a new Constitution through a nationwide referendum in March 2026. The leaders welcomed continued dialogue on human rights, the rule of law and anti-corruption, including cooperation with the Venice Commission, as well as practical cooperation through TAIEX and Twinning programmes. The Presidents reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace, security and stability, and to the principles of the UN Charter, including sovereignty, territorial integrity and the peaceful settlement of disputes. They stressed the importance of effective multilateralism, with the United Nations at its core, and reiterated support for the peaceful resolution of conflicts. The leaders also underlined the importance of strengthening the global disarmament and non-proliferation regime, including support for nuclear-weapon-free zones. The European Union took note of Kazakhstan's initiative to establish an International Water Organization within the United Nations system to address global water challenges. The Presidents welcomed the upgrade of EU–Central Asia relations to a strategic partnership and highlighted the outcomes of the Regional Ecological Summit held in Astana in April 2026. They emphasised the importance of stronger regional cooperation in Central Asia to advance shared prosperity, resilience, sustainable development and stability.”
  EU policy on Central Asia
• 2026-06-23 “Today, we, the European Commission, the COP30 Presidency (Brazil), the COP31 Presidency (Australia, Türkiye), the COP32 Presidency (Ethiopia), Canada, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, the United Kingdom, the International Energy Agency and the International Renewable Energy Agency, join forces with industry leaders to launch ‘Electrify Now': a global platform to accelerate the electrification of the global economy. We do so, convinced that rapidly increasing electrification of our homes, industries and transport systems, supported by resilient, modern and flexible grids and storage, powered by clean energy sources, is an immediate strategic and economic priority and a lasting response to the current energy crisis. We invite others to join us in this shared endeavour. Electric technologies are now widely available, more affordable than ever and their performance continues to improve. Adoption of these technologies will drive a surge in power demand, structurally changing the global energy mix. We are already seeing the scale of this momentum in real time, with global electric car sales expected to grow to 23 million in 2026, representing 28% of total car sales[1] (#_ftn1). Through to 2035, electricity demand is projected to grow 4-times faster than overall energy demand growth under today's policy settings[2] (#_ftn2), and 83% of all new power capacity installed last year was renewable[3] (#_ftn3). Investments in electricity supply and infrastructure are expected to reach USD 1.6 trillion in 2026 and rise to USD 2 trillion when spending on end-use electrification is included.[4] (#_ftn4) But we must go further and faster. The current energy crisis has once again demonstrated that dependence on unreliable imported fossil fuels can leave countries exposed to geopolitical shocks and built-in price volatility, impacting household energy bills and industrial competitiveness alike. The solution lies in accelerated electrification and clean energy deployment: a pathway to lasting energy security, reduced exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets, vastly improved energy access and huge economic and environmental benefits. The scale of this challenge demands a truly global response that spans regions and development status. Through Electrify Now we will focus attention, reinforce commitments and expand action to drive rapid implementation of electrification and clean energy over the coming years. In this light, we welcome the COP31 Presidency's announcement that in alignment with IEA and IRENA analysis, discussion of a global electrification target of 35% of final energy demand by 2035 will be central at COP31[5] (#_ftn5)[6] (#_ftn6). Working together, we will: • Unlock ambition across all regions of the globe by showcasing successes, identifying opportunities, securing commitments and strengthening delivery plans. • Accelerate clean electrification at scale by working with existing initiatives and partners to address shared policy, regulatory and investment barriers to electrification, grids, storage and renewable energy generation; and • Support EMDEs to take full advantage of the strategic opportunity to accelerate their domestic energy resilience and economic prosperity through clean electrification, with the full support of International Financial Institutions (IFIs), philanthropy, the private sector and others. We invite all governments to join Electrify Now, and for members of industry, IFIs, private finance and beyond – whose capital, expertise and convening power will be essential – to collaborate with us in this crucial endeavour. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, said: “Dependence on volatile imported fossil fuels leaves our economies exposed and our citizens paying the price. Electrification is another way to shift from reliance to resilience. Together, we can accelerate the clean energy transition and move towards a more secure, affordable and competitive future.” [1] (#_ftnref1) Global Electric Vehicles Outlook 2026 (IEA, 2026) [2] (#_ftnref2) World Energy Outlook 2025 (IEA, 2025) [3] (#_ftnref3) Renewable capacity statistics 2026 (IRENA, 2026) [4] (#_ftnref4) World Energy Investment 2026 (IEA, 2026) [5] (#_ftnref5) Transitioning away from fossil fuels: A roadmap based on renewables, electrification (IRENA, 2026) [6] (#_ftnref6) From Taking Stock to Taking Action (IEA, 2024)”
  Energy (green transition)
• 2026-06-22 “(12:13:40 – 12:14:48): Also from my side, a very warm welcome, dear Maya, madam president. It's wonderful to have you here for the 2nd summit with Moldova. We have 2 big topics. The 1, of course, is the accession to the European Union. And indeed, last week, we basically opened the 1st and most important door, the 1st cluster, and the aim must now be to have as soon as possible all the other clusters open too. The commission has recommended to the council to open the clusters. The 2nd topic we will have is the growth plan. And I must say it's impressive to see how fast and excellent you are delivering on the reforms that are necessary. Basically, it's creating a level playing field with our single market and thus opening here also the doors of the single market for Moldovan companies. The whole growth plan is €1,900,000,000 You have already had the 1st tranches. And I must say, it's impressive to see how hard you're working on it, how successful you are. And I'm very much looking forward to continue this work with you.”
  EU-Moldova relations
• 2026-06-22 “Madam President, dear Maia, A very warm welcome. It is wonderful to have you here for our second EU-Moldova Summit. We have two big topics. One is of course Moldova's accession to the European Union. And indeed, last week, we opened the first and most important door, the first cluster, and the aim must now be to open all the other clusters as soon as possible too. The Commission has recommended to the Council to open the clusters. The second topic we will have is the Growth Plan. I must say it is impressive to see how fast and excellently you are delivering on the reforms that are necessary. Basically, it is creating a level playing field with our Single Market and thus opening the doors of the Single Market for Moldovan companies. The whole Growth Plan is worth EUR 1.9 billion. You have already received the first tranches. And I must say it is impressive to see how hard you are working on it, how successful you are. I am very much looking forward to continuing this work with you.”
  EU-Moldova relations
• 2026-06-22 “Dear Maia, Madam President, Dear António, Only last week, we opened the first negotiation cluster with Moldova. It is a historic milestone on your European journey, it is opening the door to the accession process to the European Union, and it is a recognition of Moldova's determination, courage and hard work. Because that is what is behind it. You have pursued reforms in very difficult circumstances. You have kept your course despite constant pressure and hybrid attacks from Russia. This first cluster is about strong institutions, trusted justice and the rule of law. It is the backbone of the whole accession process. And with today's Summit, the European Union and Moldova are taking another step forward together. One year ago, we met in Chișinău. Since then, a lot has happened. Moldova joined the Single Euro Payments Area, – the so called SEPA – making euro transactions between us much faster and much cheaper. It is good for the businesses. It is good for the citizens. Your country also became part of our ‘Roam Like at Home', this is very important for the citizens because it is eliminating roaming costs for Moldovans and businesses. And Moldova joined the European Environment Agency. These are concrete examples of what gradual integration means. Moldova is moving closer to the European Union. And Moldovan citizens and businesses are already feeling the difference and the benefits. And then, indeed, we have the Growth Plan. The Growth Plan is at the heart of your gradual integration into the Single Market.. The principle is very simple: reforms are bringing Moldova closer to our Single Market, the reforms are creating a level playing field, and with these reforms comes substantial European investment. One figure says it all: Moldova has completed 93% of the reforms due so far under the Growth Plan – that is extraordinary. This has already unlocked EUR 504 million in EU funds for your country. Of course, today's Summit is about the next steps. If Moldova implements all reforms due by the end of this year, an additional EUR 523 million can be unlocked. This means better roads and bridges, improved healthcare facilities, better access to financing for the companies, and more opportunities for citizens. A true win-win situation between Moldova and the European Union. Energy is another key topic. Moldova has made remarkable and hard-won progress in reducing its dependence on Russian gas and electricity. The Vulcăneşti-Chișinău high voltage power line, supported by EU grants and loans, will support your energy resilience and accelerate your integration into the European electricity grid. Now, we will continue working together to deliver more interconnectors – so that the energy can float to where it is needed – and boost energy efficiency of buildings. Because every building we renovate saves energy, and that means less energy import is needed, and that helps us to decouple from volatile global gas markets. Europe's future is also about the next generation. We want young Moldovans to experience Europe directly. This is why we want to extend DiscoverEU to Moldova in 2027 so that young Moldovans can travel across Europe, meet other Europeans, and feel part of our shared future. And we are working towards Moldova's full participation in Erasmus+ as early as 2028. Finally, on security. Hybrid attacks and the spillover effects of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine continue to impact Moldova: disinformation, energy blackmail, cyberattacks, airspace violations. This is the challenge you and all of us are facing. And a challenge we will meet together. Because Moldova's security is Europe's security. This is why we are stepping up our support. Under the European Peace Facility, Moldova is already the second-largest bilateral recipient after Ukraine with nearly EUR 200 million. And we are preparing a further EUR 120 million support package for 2026, focused exactly on your security needs. We will also make EUR 11 million available to strengthen Moldova's resilience against hybrid attacks. And we will continue our work through the EU Partnership Mission – on cyber, countering disinformation and strategic communication. We are also investing EUR 17 million in border infrastructure. You have explained how important that is. This will mean stronger surveillance, better detection, and greater security for Moldova. And we want Moldova to be more closely involved in the European Cooperation Network on Elections. It is important that we share experiences and that we learn from each other. Dear Maia, Moldova has shown exceptional resilience. It has shown resolve. And it has shown that it belongs to our European family. Thank you very much for this excellent Summit. I am looking forward to working with you in the future.”
  EU-Moldova relations
• 2026-06-19 “Good afternoon, We have had a productive EUCO so let me jump right in. First, on Ukraine. The tide really is turning. We start with good news, António and I congratulated President Zelenskyy on the opening of the first cluster. This is a major milestone. Now our goal is to open more clusters before the summer. We also agreed on the rollover of the Russian sanctions – and importantly this time for 12 months, not 6. This sends a strong signal. And we continue our work to finalise the 21st package. Our hard biting sanctions will keep pressure on Russia. And at the same time, we have to prepare for when negotiations start. Second, on the Middle East. The interim agreement between the United States and Iran is a breakthrough. And an important opportunity. To ensure freedom of navigation, toll free, in the Strait of Hormuz. To ensure that Iran never has nuclear weapons. To address concerns related to its ballistic programme and regional activities. And ultimately, to advance peace and security across the region. This crisis has underscored an important lesson. We must not allow the global economy to be held hostage. We need to develop other routes and corridors, like the IMEC. And for that, we will deepen our engagement with our partners in the Gulf and beyond. And this will be a topic that will be discussed the next time we meet the Gulf countries. Finally, what is happening in Lebanon is deeply concerning. A stable and peaceful Middle East also requires a stable and sovereign Lebanon. We support the Lebanese leaderships effort to achieve the disarmament of Hezbollah. At the same time, it is important that Israel respects both the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Lebanon. Now to my third point. We had good discussions at the G7 earlier this week, and last night we had a productive discussion on structural overcapacities and the impact on global imbalances. Let me bring it back to Europe, with some figures. Over the past 5 years, imports from China into the EU have increased by 45%. Last year, the EU recorded its largest-ever trade deficit with China - EUR 360 billion. That is a deficit of EUR 1 billion per day. And for the first time, all Member States had a trade deficit. This is not just about cheap imports. We see overcapacities that erode our own manufacturing base. And this is simply not sustainable. We know that we must do our homework to boost our own competitiveness. But we also have to address the global imbalances. Our discussions showed clear support for continuing on the path of diversification and derisking our relationships. On one hand, we must avoid dependencies that can be weaponized. This means we are accelerating on de-risking, not decoupling. On the other hand, we will keep protecting our market from unfair practices. Europe has already built an extensive toolbox in recent years. Now we must use it more proactively and more strategically to defend our European interests. And the Commission will work on new tools such as a diversification instrument. I am pleased that we saw clear support for a European response based on unity among Member States and dialogue with China, which remains crucial. The Commission will take this forward. And the topic will remain high on our common agenda. Turning to internal matters, today we also discussed the next EU budget. The Council has now reached agreement on the new MFF architecture. This is an important step forward. It shows that Member States share the Commission's ambition for a simpler and future-proof budget. A budget that equips Europe to compete, strengthens its security and defence, and its capacity to act in a more challenging world. A budget that will support our farmers, our regions and our communities across the Union. And for the first time, we have a negotiating box with figures, thanks to the Cypriot presidency. This is another major step forward. Of course, no one sees their ideal budget immediately in this box. But it is a solid basis for negotiation, for the next presidency to take forward. Now we must maintain the level of ambition. And this must be matched by the means to deliver. This is why we need a robust and stable system of new own resources. And why, by our next meeting, we should have a shared understanding of how we want to finance the next MFF. Dear Nikos, this agreement in the Council was a real breakthrough. I want to thank you and specifically also your whole team over there for the extremely hard work, the skilful steer, the overview and the delivery. This was really fantastic. So many thanks for that. With this the Irish Presidency has a strong foundation to build on. But this is only one of your achievements. Your Presidency came at a demanding period. Cyprus has been a vital bridge with the Middle East. It really paid off that since many years you have excellent relationship to the region. Friendship, partnership built on trust, this really paid off. Your work has helped keep us closely engaged with the region when dialogue mattered most. Your Presidency also delivered on some of Europe's most important priorities. From support to Ukraine to progress on enlargement the likes of which we have not seen in years. From competitiveness and simplification, with agreements on a number of omnibuses. To a common European system on returns. I also congratulate you on the agreement reached on air passenger rights. It was the first major overhaul of these rules in two decades – and they matter so much in the daily lives of European citizens. Passengers enjoy clearer compensation rules, airlines have greater legal certainty, and everyone benefits. You and your team can be proud of what Cyprus has achieved. So efharisto, my friend.”
  Trade relations with China
• 2026-06-18 “I also want to join those who congratulate Ukraine for opening the first cluster. This is a big step forward. Congratulations, and you deserve it because you have been working so hard to move forward, to do the necessary reforms. We hope that during the summer we can open more clusters. This is very important because when Ukraine delivers, we also have to deliver. And indeed, there is a special momentum right now. I have the impression the tide is turning for Ukraine. We see that Ukraine is holding the line, even partially regaining territory. Ukraine is strong on air defence, also together with our Member States working on a drone wall for our frontline countries. This shows how much Ukraine is already integrated in the work of the European Union and moving forward. And this at a time where we send a very strong message also to Russia that we provide Ukraine with EUR 90 billion loan for the next two years, so also to give a very strong message to say we are going to be by your side for as long as it takes. In Russia, on the other hand, the economy is suffering. The fact that Russia has shut down the internet, closed telegram for example, speaks for itself because Russia is again rising an iron curtain, but now it is a digital iron curtain on their people. And so far, this is a very special moment. We are very glad to have Volodymyr Zelenskyy here with the European Council, and I am very much looking forward to the discussions that we will have.”
  EU-Ukraine relations
• 2026-06-16 “E-000716/2026 Reply The conclusion of a bilateral “Enhanced Border Security Partnership” (EBSP) with the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was announced by the US as a new requirement for all countries participating in or aspiring to join the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) in February 2022. The US requires operational EBSPs to be in place by 31 December 2026. The background to this is the fact that visa reciprocity with the US is in the EU’s interest, and that each country is in a position to set the criteria enabling individuals to enjoy visa-free access to its territory. On 16 December 2025, the Council adopted a Decision authorising the opening of negotiations on a framework agreement between the European Union and the United States of America on the exchange of information for security screenings and identity verifications relating to border procedures and applications for visa, together with negotiating directives. The Decision and negotiating directives demonstrate the European wish to continue to move towards full visa reciprocity with the US. At the same time, they reflect the Union’s interests and the principle of reciprocity: the Framework Agreement would also enable EU Member States to receive information from the US for the security screening and verification of the identity of persons travelling to the EU’s territory. In line with the Decision, negotiations are conducted in consultation with the competent Council preparatory body and subject to any guidance which the Council may subsequently issue to the Commission. All relevant considerations are taken into account in that context. This will also be the case when examining any Commission proposals at the next stages in the process provided for by Article 218 TFEU.”
  Asylum & border control · Privacy & law enforcement
• 2026-06-15 “I welcome the agreement reached between the US and Iran, following sustained diplomatic efforts by several partners. The priority now is its swift and full implementation by all parties. This agreement should allow for the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Freedom of navigation must be restored toll-free. This is essential for regional stability and the global economy. It opens the door to broader negotiations on peace and security in the Middle East. And should end Iran's nuclear and ballistic programmes and its destabilising activities in the region. And of course there can be no peace in the Middle East while Lebanon is in flames. Once again Europe calls on all parties to respect Lebanon's sovereignty and territorial integrity and implement a genuine ceasefire. In Evian, G7 leaders will meet partners from the Gulf and the wider Middle East. Europe is ready to play its part. This crisis also carries a clear lesson. Once again, energy dependencies have been weaponised. We must diversify our supply routes and develop alternative export corridors to diversify away from the bottleneck of Hormuz. We will discuss this, and more, in Evian.”
  EU-Iran relations
• 2026-06-15 “Thank you very much. I am looking forward to this G7 in Évian under the French Presidency. We meet against the backdrop of geopolitical fragmentation, economic reconfiguration and a rapid technological change. Our main goal here is, on the one hand, to address the structural challenges of the global economy, specifically global imbalances and overcapacities. And on the other hand, we want to focus on crises that are affecting all of us – the war in Ukraine, the conflict in the Middle East, and indeed Ebola. So we will have a packed agenda, and I am very much looking forward to the discussion with the G7 leaders and the guest countries that you all named. Let me start with the structural topic. A key topic for this year's G7 is global economic imbalances. This means that some countries produce too much and do not consume enough, and vice versa. And these dynamics are increasingly dangerous for the stability of the global economy. That is why I very much welcome President Macron's focus on this topic – not at least because it is increasingly becoming relevant for the European Union. If you look at the year 2025, this will be remembered as the year where, for the first time ever, all Member States had a trade deficit with China. The European Union recorded its largest ever trade deficit of EUR 360 billion. This is of course not sustainable. As you know: in Europe, our strategy is very clear – de-risk, not decouple. And concretely, this means we really have to step up and accelerate building domestic capacity on the one hand. And on the other hand, we have to weave our worldwide net of free trade agreements because this is the means to diversify our supply chains. At the same time, we also need to protect our market from unfair practices. Over the last years, we have developed and deployed our toolbox from safeguards to anti-subsidy measures to address unfair competition and even cases of coercion. In the G7, there is a general understanding that unity and coordination among G7 is paramount in this topic. We all experience the same patterns in our economies. Take for example the topic of critical raw materials. We need to come together to achieve the adequate scale for these critical raw materials. And this is why we are working with the G7 and other partner countries on a critical raw material agreement. Unity is the precondition for G7 to achieve a level playing field globally. Now, moving from structural challenges to the ongoing crises, we will discuss the situation in the Middle East. And let me also start by welcoming the agreement reached between the United States and Iran. The priority now is implementation. The Strait of Hormuz must reopen, and freedom of navigation must be restored – toll-free. This is essential for the regional stability and of course also for the global economy. The agreement should open the door to wider talks and lead to the end of Iran's nuclear and ballistic programmes. And let me also underline that there can be no lasting peace while Lebanon remains in flames. We call for a genuine ceasefire and the full respect for Lebanon's sovereignty. This crisis also carries a clear lesson. Once again, we have seen our energy dependency being weaponised. So in this framework, we will discuss how to reduce our dependence on transit through the Strait. For example, alternative export routes have been created that are more resilient and offer choices. And other routes will be built – for example, a typical one is IMEC. Turning now to Ukraine. We look forward to welcoming President Zelenskyy tomorrow. Russia's brutal war of aggression has now lasted indeed longer than World War I. And in the face of escalating attacks, Europe keeps up its unwavering support to Ukraine. Our EUR 90 billion loan package covers two-thirds of Ukraine's financing needs for this year and for the next year. The first disbursements will come still this month. And for the remaining third, we need Ukraine's partners to step up. This will be a topic at this Summit. We are also preparing for the next winter together with Ukraine. Together with Canada, we are leading the preparedness work. We are also joining the pledging efforts of President Macron. And I can announce a contribution of EUR 75 million in grant funding for the New Safe Confinement. Now you will all recall, at our last G7 in Kananaskis, the situation for Ukraine was much more challenging. Today, Ukraine is in a different position. Let me recall: Ukraine is holding the frontline and even partially regaining territory. Ukraine has developed the capability to strike strategic targets deep inside Russia. And Ukraine has become a world-leading producer of cutting-edge military equipment. On the other hand, Russia is feeling the strain and pressure. Our sanctions are biting and cutting deep. Putin's war economy has never been as weak. And at the same time, we are anchoring Ukraine in Europe. Today, we opened the first cluster of the EU accession negotiations. This is a huge step forward. Ukraine has made remarkable reform progress. They have delivered, so now we have to deliver too. Finally, turning to AI. We have seen impressive advances in frontier models that will drive progress in science and technology. At the same time, these models also multiply the risks. The key question of today is how to introduce new models safely. Now, testing before entry into service – that is not new. It is very much what we are used to, for example, for airplanes and medical devices. Here, cooperation of G7 countries is paramount. We should exchange information and ensure cooperation of independent entities that are evaluating models before their market release. The other important dimension is how to reap the benefits of the AI revolution. And here, adoption is key. Europe and the United States are at par in terms of AI adoption, but we all know that much more needs to be done in terms of industrial AI and transforming our manufacturing. Here, AI adoption is key. The G7 countries have to win the battle of adoption. And it is all about application. We – as you know – as European Union have recently presented the Tech Sovereignty package to drive AI innovation in Europe. We want our own AI future, not in isolation – that is very important – but together with our trusted partners. My final point, we are protecting children online. I want to thank President Macron for tabling this crucial topic. Because the opportunities of the digital world are clear, but so are the risks. The debate is not whether young people should have access to social media, the debate is whether social media should have access to our children and teenagers, and when. And here the case for social media delays, because of the risks, is getting stronger. We all know that childhood and early adolescence are formative years, for the brain functioning but, most importantly, also for the development of a personality. Children need to develop their skills to act with autonomy offline but, of course, also online. And we need to give them the protection, the time to mature and, of course, the means to do so. There is also a vast responsibility of the tech companies. In Europe, platforms must prove that they are safe by design, and this principle is especially important for our children and teenagers. So you see we have a lot to work about ahead of us. And the results of this Summit will feed into our discussion that we will then have at the end of the week at the European Council back in Brussels. Thank you very much.”
  Trade relations with China
• 2026-06-11 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 11.6.2026 Written question In line with Regulation No 1 from 1958 [1] , EU legislation is published in all EU official and working languages and natural and legal persons can write to the Commission in all of them, including Croatian, and will receive a reply in the same language. On its main website [2] , the Commission provides information in all EU official languages, including Croatian. Practical information on citizens’ rights and administrative and legal procedures is also provided in all EU official languages [3] , including Croatian. When information is particularly relevant for speakers of a specific language, it is usually drafted and published in that language or translated into it. In such instances, other languages may be provided through machine translation. An example of this is the website of the Commission’s Representation in Croatia [4] , where the content is drafted and published in Croatian. This balanced approach ensures that the Commission’s online communication with citizens fully adheres to the principle of multilingualism. [1] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:01958R0001-20130701. [2] https://commission.europa.eu. [3] https://european-union.europa.eu, https://europa.eu/youreurope or https://e-justice.europa.eu. [4] https://croatia.representation.ec.europa.eu/.”
  Multilingualism in EU institutions
• 2026-06-10 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 10.6.2026 Written question The Commission is aware of the allegations against Peter Mandelson, who was Member of the Commission between November 2004 and October 2008. It takes these allegations very seriously and has referred the matter for appropriate follow-up to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) , within the latter’s independent investigative function. OLAF has confirmed it has opened a case but is not in a position to share details on individual cases or probes beyond the information and data already made public. This is in order to protect the confidentiality of investigations and of possible ensuing judicial proceedings, as well as to ensure respect for personal data and procedural rights. OLAF fully respects the presumption of innocence and the rights of defence of the persons/entities concerned. The EU has a strong legal and operational framework to support Member States in tackling serious crime with a cross-border dimension, including trafficking in human beings and child sexual exploitation. However, the investigation of criminal offences remains the competence of national authorities. Finally, since 2014 the Commission publishes transparent information on meetings held between Members of the Commission or Commission officials and interest representatives, and Members of the Commission publish additional information on their activities in their online public agendas. There are no registered meetings held between Jeffrey Epstein and/or his consultancy with the Commission in these publicly available sources.”
  Transparency requirements of EU institutions · EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters
• 2026-06-10 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 10.6.2026 Written question The question raised by the Honourable Member, received by the Commission on 24 February 2026, partly overlaps with his Written Question P-004435/2025, whose reply was given by the Commission on 5 February 2026. The Commission refers to its reply to the above-mentioned question concerning the charges brought against the former Commissioner for Justice . At this stage, and as far as the Commission is aware, the allegations regarding the former Commissioner for Justice do not concern the exercise of his duties as Member of the College and notably his performance as Member of the Commission in charge of Justice. The Commission has not conducted any internal investigations following the allegations published in the media and will not interfere in any investigations which might be carried out by the Belgian competent authorities, yet it remains ready to cooperate with the Belgian authorities where relevant . The Commission recalls that the former Commissioner for Justice, as any other citizen, benefits from the principle of the presumption of innocence until a possible conviction by the competent judicial authorities. The anti-money laundering and counter financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) package is a comprehensive legislative reform that was adopted in June 2024 [1] . The preparation of this package involved extensive and complex consultations of the various Directorates-General of the Commission, including the Directorate-General for Justice and Consumers and culminated with a collegiate decision procedure at the level of the Commission, which naturally involved all the members of the College and their cabinets. It is therefore not possible to comment on the individual role of any specific Commissioner. [1] https://finance.ec.europa.eu/financial-crime/anti-money-laundering-and-countering-financing-terrorism-eu-level_en.”
  EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters · Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-06-10 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 10.6.2026 Written question Members of the College are subject to strict obligations arising directly under the Treaties as well as to the ethical obligations emanating from the Code of Conduct for the Members of the Commission [1] . The Commission is aware of the allegations against Peter Mandelson, who was Member of the Commission between November 2004 and October 2008. It takes these allegations very seriously and has referred the matter for appropriate follow-up to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), within the latter’s independent investigative function. OLAF has confirmed it has opened a case but is not in a position to share details on individual cases or probes beyond the information and data already made public. This is in order to protect the confidentiality of investigations and of possible ensuing judicial proceedings, as well as to ensure respect for personal data and procedural rights. OLAF fully respects the presumption of innocence and the rights of defence of the persons/entities concerned. [1] Commission Decision of 31 January 2018 on a Code of Conduct for the Members of the European Commission, C(2018) 700 final.”
  EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters · Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-06-10 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 10.6.2026 Written question Members of the College are subject to strict obligations arising directly under the Treaties as well as to the ethical obligations emanating from the Code of Conduct for the Members of the Commission [1] . The Commission is aware of the allegations against Peter Mandelson, who was Member of the Commission between November 2004 and October 2008. It takes these allegations very seriously and has referred the matter for appropriate follow-up to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), within the latter’s independent investigative function. OLAF has confirmed it has opened a case but is not in a position to share details on individual cases or probes beyond the information and data already made public. This is in order to protect the confidentiality of investigations and of possible ensuing judicial proceedings, as well as to ensure respect for personal data and procedural rights. OLAF fully respects the presumption of innocence and the rights of defence of the persons/entities concerned. The investigation of other criminal offences remains the competence of national authorities. [1] Commission Decision of 31 January 2018 on a Code of Conduct for the Members of the European Commission, C(2018) 700 final.”
  Transparency requirements of EU institutions · EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters
• 2026-06-10 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 10.6.2026 Written question Members of the College are subject to strict obligations arising directly under the Treaties as well as to the ethical obligations emanating from the Code of Conduct for the Members of the Commission [1] . The Commission is aware of the allegations against Peter Mandelson, who was Member of the Commission between November 2004 and October 2008. It takes these allegations very seriously and has referred the matter for appropriate follow-up to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), within the latter’s independent investigative function. OLAF has confirmed it has opened a case but is not in a position to share details on individual cases or probes beyond the information and data already made public. This is in order to protect the confidentiality of investigations and of possible ensuing judicial proceedings, as well as to ensure respect for personal data and procedural rights. OLAF fully respects the presumption of innocence and the rights of defence of the persons/entities concerned. Global Counsel was removed from the Transparency Register [2] on 20 March 2026 following the cessation of its activities. Public information regarding its participation in meetings, previously available in the Transparency Register, remains accessible on the Commission’s transparency webpages concerning meetings with Members of the Commission, members of their cabinets and Commission staff holding management functions . The Commission requires registration of interest representatives in the Transparency Register prior to such meetings and publication of information and minutes for each meeting thereafter. The EEAS should be addressed for questions about members of its staff. [1] Commission Decision of 31 January 2018 on a Code of Conduct for the Members of the European Commission, C(2018) 700 final. [2] https://transparency-register.europa.eu/index_en.”
  Transparency requirements of EU institutions · Transparency requirements for interest groups
• 2026-06-09 “Almost every day now, we wake up to the same kind of news. Another major Russian strike on Ukrainian cities, targeting civilians blindly. We also wake up to the news of drones violating European airspace. Over the Baltics, and along our Eastern borders. Two weeks ago, a drone crashed into an apartment building in Romania. Another one exploded in the port of Constanța just last week. Some call it Russian escalation. I see it differently. It is plain and simple: failure. Four years after the start of its full-scale invasion, Russia has clearly failed to subjugate Ukraine. The price Russia pays is heavier by the day. And it is paid primarily by the people of Russia. They are mourning sons, brothers and husbands. And at the same time, they face declining living standards at home. Inflation is close to 6%. Interest rates stand at 14.5%. Taxes are rising. This is the real cost of Putin's war for Russian citizens. And on top of this, our sanctions keep biting hard and cutting deep. They are weakening the economic foundations of Russia's war effort. Sanctions have effectively cut Russia off from global capital markets. Russia's economy is slowing sharply. Growth is sluggish, at best. The budget is under growing pressure. More than two-thirds of the liquid assets of its sovereign wealth fund are gone. Energy revenues fell by around 40% in early 2026. Hundreds of vessels from Russia's shadow fleet have been targeted by our sanctions. Export controls are depriving Russia's defence industry of critical technologies and components. So our consistency with the sanctions packages is paying off. Today, we are putting forward the 21st sanctions package. We focus on the sectors with the highest impact: energy, financial services and crypto, trade – including fisheries, for the first time – and we are banning the entry of former Russian combatants into the European Union. First, on energy. The conflict in the Middle East and disruptions to global energy supply chains have eased some pressure on Russia. So, the objective of our package could not be clearer. We want to maintain the full intensity of our sanctions. And the way to do this is to ensure that Russia's profits from oil sales remain contained. Our oil price cap has a built-in adjustment mechanism to follow the market. It was not made for market shocks like the one caused by the closure of the Strait in Hormuz. So we propose to simply pause the adjustment until January next year. This will give oil markets time to stabilise while preserving pressure on Russia's revenues. At the same time, we will continue targeting the shadow fleet. Today, we propose listing 30 more vessels on top of the 632 already sanctioned. For the first time, we are also targeting vessels that assist the shadow fleet – providing bunkering and other services for example. And we propose targeting critical infrastructure, such as ports, airports, refineries trading or processing Russian oil. Finally, we propose restricting the sale of LNG tankers to Russia, just as we already did for oil tankers. Second, on financial and crypto restrictions. We are expanding our transaction bans to 31 more Russian banks. And to 20 banks, crypto firms or platforms and oil traders in third countries, ones that have been servicing sanctioned Russian entities and individuals or circumventing our measures. For the first time, we will introduce the possibility of a full third-country ban for crypto-asset services. It will act as a strong deterrent for the countries hosting platforms that help Russia evade our sanctions. Third, on trade. We are putting forward new export restrictions on items and technologies used by Russia's military industry. For example, we are targeting more metals and alloys used in the aerospace and defence sectors. For drones, we propose new export bans on ground support equipment, and jamming and launch systems, among others. We also propose new import bans on a number of goods worth EUR 60 million. For example, it covers certain metals, metal ores or car parts. Because we want to lock in Europe's diversification away from Russian imports. And finally, we are addressing one of the last major unsanctioned sectors: fisheries. We propose substantial restrictions on imports on some fish products, and a complete ban on others, including cod. And we will be aligning trade restrictions for Belarus. So it cannot serve as a backdoor for Russian trade. I also want to mention one key point of this new aspect. For the first time, we propose to ban from entry into the EU anyone who has served in the Russian Armed Forces since the beginning of the war. So, Europe stays off limits for anyone who has participated in the invasion of Ukraine. As simple as that. And finally, at the same time, we provide relentless support to our brave neighbour, partner and future member of the European Union, Ukraine. Yesterday, we delivered almost EUR 3 billion from the Ukraine Facility. And still this month, we will issue the first disbursement under our EUR 90 billion loan to Ukraine. So by the end of the month, we will provide Ukraine with EUR 6 billion for drones and more than EUR 3 billion worth of macro-financial assistance. And of course, more disbursements will follow soon. And to conclude: One thing I admire most about our Ukrainian friends is their unbreakable determination to belong to our European Union. That is impressive. They are delivering reform after reform while their cities are under attack. While the sky above them is filled with smoke. While air raid sirens echo across the country. Despite all this, they are making extraordinary progress. Clearly, Ukraine has delivered. So it is now high time for us to deliver as well. And we now have the historic opportunity to do so. In the next days, we will open the first cluster with Ukraine and Moldova. This basically opens the door to the next phase of the accession process: The formal start of accession negotiations. And I do not need to tell you that the Commission stands fully ready to support Ukraine on its path to our European Union where it belongs. Thank you very much for your attention.”
  EU-Russia relations (from March 2022)
• 2026-06-09 “Dear António, Dear Members of the European Parliament, Dear Commissioners, Ladies and gentlemen, Dear friends of the New European Bauhaus, It is good to be here today, surrounded by people and projects that show Europe at its best. Europe has always been a continent of builders, cathedrals that took generations to complete, railways and bridges to connect our countries and – of course – building our European Union itself. A Union that is aspiring to be the best place in the world to live, to work and to raise a family. The best place to feel safe and to grow old with dignity. The best place to be innovative and daring. The best place to sow respect and harvest community. Therefore, our buildings have always been more than stones or steel. They embody our culture, our values and our way of life. But as the world around us is changing, we also have to change our approach. Geopolitical shocks are shaking our economies. Extreme weather events are the new normal of climate change. Extremists within and outside our Union are challenging our democracies. This does not mean we should stop building, it means we must build differently. More sustainable. More resilient. Better connected. That is what the New European Bauhaus is all about. It is a shared effort to tackle the issues that matter most to our people today. From affordable housing to the industries and infrastructure of the clean transition, to democracy itself. And we are doing so in a way that is sustainable, inclusive and beautiful. Because these are the values that have long made Europe special. Coming to the New European Bauhaus, what started six years ago has become a real movement. Over 700 projects, more than 2,000 organisations, and millions of people from Europe to Brazil to Japan, you name it. And our Parliament and our Member States are fully engaged on this journey. Just last month, the Council adopted our new recommendation on the New European Bauhaus. So the commitment is here, and so is creativity. As you walk through the festival – and I can only recommend it –, you see it on display. Building materials created from agricultural waste. Civic spaces reimagined to bring communities together. Neighbourhoods that are cleaner, cooler and more accessible. We are showing that inclusiveness and competitiveness go together, that clean is cool and that people drive lasting change. Through projects like these, the New European Bauhaus is building a more sustainable, more liveable and more democratic Europe. Ladies and gentlemen, Sustainability is the baseline for everything we do through the New European Bauhaus. It is a big topic, but I want to start small – with an olive pit. Two thirds of the world's olive oil come from our European Union, but only 20% of the olives becomes oil. The rest – pulp, skin, pits – becomes waste. Two years ago, a group of Cypriot entrepreneurs brought their idea to a New European Bauhaus hackathon in Nicosia. They wanted to turn discarded pits into sustainable design materials – tabletops and other commercial products. Cyprus produces over 24,000 tonnes of olive pits each year. So this project both reduces waste and creates new revenues for communities across the island. And this week, the results are here at this festival: beautiful, durable tables. I think this is an amazing success story and I really want to applaud these fantastic, innovative people for that. From waste to everyday usability. This project shows a shift in how we can build – making new out of old, turning waste into value. And we need much more of this approach, because the circular economy will help power our clean transition. Just two figures: the built environment makes up 35% of Europe's waste – and 12% of national emissions. So circular buildings can make a huge difference, for communities, nature and our climate. We also know that today, sustainability and competitiveness go hand in hand. And as global demand for clean technologies and materials grows, staying at the forefront of that curve will give our businesses a competitive edge. And this is also a matter of economic independence. The more we recycle, the less we import, the less we depend on vulnerable supply chains. For all these reasons, later this year, we will adopt the Circular Economy Act. It will create a single European market for high-quality recycled materials – to grow supply and to strengthen demand. As our Bauhaus projects show, circularity is already a present reality. But we can make it the new normal, so that we waste less, create more and develop more value here at home. Great innovations like these start with people, people who have the vision and the skills. This is why we put the New European Bauhaus Academy at the heart of this project, and we will increase our investments. Good news: today, I can say that over the next two years, we will commit an additional EUR 50 million to the New European Bauhaus Academy. That is promised. This will go toward building skills, of course to research and experimentation – that is what we live of –, and to supporting start-ups, SMEs and creative practitioners. Dear guests, Several of our Member States already have New European Bauhaus Academy hubs. Now, just last month, we officially launched our first international hub in Ukraine. It is a huge step forward. We all know the destruction in this brave country is abhorrent, but we will overcome it. We are supporting new skills, new jobs and new industries. We will turn rubble into recovery. So that Ukrainians can build back their country stronger than ever. I am very much looking forward to hearing more on this soon from our friend Hanna Bondar and to learn from Ukraine's example. One thing is for sure: new European Bauhaus will be at the side of Ukraine every step of the way, you can count on that. Ladies and gentlemen, When we started this, we knew that the true test would be whether people can feel the difference in their daily lives. And this is also true for housing. A home is more than four walls and a roof – we all know it by experience –, it is the foundation on which people build their lives: their families, it is important for the health, for their jobs, for the sense of belonging. And when people put down roots, entire communities flourish alongside them. This is why the housing crisis is one of the most urgent facing Europeans today. And our solution is not just to build more, but to build better. Homes that are affordable, sustainable and genuinely liveable. There is a wonderful example: we can see this in Amsterdam, at the Kleiburg flat complex. This modernist icon from the 1970s fell into dereliction. But instead of demolishing it, the local community launched a project to restore it. Each future occupant helped to finish off their own apartment. By giving the residents control, the project reduced delays and costs. The result was housing made not only affordable, but fast, functioning and fit for purpose. We need more of this. The good news is: Bauhaus funding is still available in our current budget. So I encourage our Member States to take full advantage, particularly for housing, so that we can deliver at the necessary scale. This is also why, today, we are launching a new Catalogue on New European Bauhaus blueprints. It is a tool for architects – for all of you in this crowd here who are architects –, real estate companies, local authorities. Please use it, so that we can build better and faster where it is most needed. The knowledge is out there, just seize the moment. That is important. Ladies and gentlemen, In 1925, 100 years ago, the legendary Bauhaus opened its doors in Dessau. It was a promising moment, and a fragile one. We all know what was lost in the years that followed, and how quickly democracy can fracture. This lesson is especially important and urgent today. As polarisation and distrust grow, and some feel disconnected, we need stronger public spaces where citizens can come together and engage. And this is why participation is the cornerstone of our Bauhaus approach. Because when people act together, they build trust, and stronger communities make stronger democracies. Change starts always at the local level. From something as small as an olive pit, or perhaps a new tree in the square. But taken together, our projects add up to something much greater. Therefore, over the past five years, the New European Bauhaus Prizes have become a true expression of this idea. This year is very special. For the first time, we launched an EU-wide competition to design the official trophy, and we have many of the finalists with us today. Their amazing work is displayed all around the room – later on, you can have a look at it. But I would ask now each and every one of these finalists to please stand up for a moment. We asked these finalists to imagine a symbol for an entire movement, and I must say, dear finalists, you delivered beautifully. Being selected among the ten finalists is already a remarkable achievement. So, my friends, let us thank each and every one of them for their creativity and their imagination. I thank all of you who came to the opening of this Festival. Many thanks to you and long live Europe.”
  EU policy on urban development
• 2026-06-08 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 8.6.2026 Written question Members of the College are subject to strict obligations arising directly under the Treaties as well as to the ethical obligations emanating from the Code of Conduct for the Members of the European Commission [1] . The Commission is aware of the allegations against Peter Mandelson, who was Member of the Commission between November 2004 and October 2008. It takes these allegations very seriously and has referred the matter for appropriate follow-up to the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), within the latter’s independent investigative function. OLAF has confirmed it has opened a case but is not in a position to share details on individual cases or probes beyond the information and data already made public. This is in order to protect the confidentiality of investigations and of possible ensuing judicial proceedings, as well as to ensure respect for personal data and procedural rights. OLAF fully respects the presumption of innocence and the rights of defence of the persons/entities concerned. [1] Commission Decision of 31 January 2018 on a Code of Conduct for the Members of the European Commission, C(2018) 700 final https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32018D0221(02). In 2008, the version Code of Conduct of 24 November 2004 was applicable, available at the following link: https://www.cvce.eu/obj/code_of_conduct_for_commissioners_24_november_2004-en-eb3c996a-b728-496e-b06c-49ef61f70d16.html.”
  Transparency requirements for interest groups · Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-06-08 “Thank you so much, dear Sophie. Dear guests, Thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to offer a very brief introduction. It was very important for me to be here. First of all, I want to thank all of you, and especially you, Sophie, for organising this event on World Brain Tumour Day. This is deeply important to me because, with all the crises we are experiencing around us, it is essential that we remain committed to beating cancer. You are familiar with the figures: every year, around 2.7 million people in the European Union are diagnosed with cancer. Around 42,000 people annually are diagnosed with brain tumours, and 36,000 lose their lives. Behind every single figure is a human story. A person suffering and fighting. Loved ones who care for them, stand by them and hope for the best. Dear Sophie, You and your children experienced this first-hand. That is why it was important for me to come the moment you asked me. It was an immediate yes. But there is also a second reason why I wanted to come to this session specifically. I was just 13 years old when my little sister died of cancer. She was only 11. She had a reticulosarcoma, a very rare cancer, completely incurable at the time. I still vividly remember the helplessness of my parents, but also of the medical staff around her. Ten years later, I studied medicine myself, and after my studies I started to work as an assistant in obstetrics and gynaecology. Of course, there was also the oncology ward. But I must say that there, I also experienced cases that ended well. There was healing. There was hope. There was progress and groundbreaking research that truly made a difference. Another ten years later, one of my brothers became ill with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He lost the battle, and it was a heartbreaking farewell. But today, the five-year relative survival rate for non-Hodgkin lymphoma is approximately 74%. That figure speaks for itself. Ladies and Gentlemen, What I am trying to say is that we can, and we must, beat cancer. Thanks to medical professionals and researchers like you, we are making tangible progress. I often think back to my years studying medicine. Who would have imagined at that time that we could vaccinate against certain cancers on a large scale? Or that immunotherapies could defeat cancer? At the time, this was almost unthinkable for a medical student. Today, as you all know, it has become common practice. That is why Europe has placed the fight against cancer at the heart of its agenda with Europe's Beating Cancer Plan. We are investing EUR 4 billion in the fight against cancer, including EUR 600 million dedicated to research projects. We have made HPV vaccination the standard recommendation for both girls and boys. Some Member States have already vaccinated 90% of young girls, and we are seeing a dramatic reduction in cervical cancer rates. But there is still much more to do. I want to be very brief on four points. First, 40% of cancer cases are considered preventable, so we should focus even more on prevention. This is not only a question of lifestyle. It is also a question of screening, and of access to high-quality screening for everyone. Second, we must act faster and more efficiently, particularly when it comes to developing treatments. This is one of the goals of the European Biotech Act. It will help accelerate and simplify approvals for clinical trials. I know that clinical trials are often the bottleneck, and it is absolutely essential that we improve in this area, and we will. We also need better data-sharing through the European Health Data Space. Better data-sharing means better understanding and better treatment, especially in the age of AI. We are sitting on a wealth of data, and with the highest standards of privacy, we can use this data for the benefit of people who are ill or recovering. Third, we must address the inequalities that still persist in early detection and treatment. Our goal in the European Union must be that every person has equal access to high-quality care, regardless of where they live, what they earn or their level of education. And my final point: it is wonderful that more and more people are surviving cancer, but we must strengthen support for survivors. Too often, survivors face higher insurance premiums or difficult loan conditions, for example. That is why the right to be forgotten is so important. Many Member States now provide such protections, and we will persevere until every survivor in Europe receives the same treatment and the same opportunities. Ladies and Gentlemen, Dear Sophie, I started with sad stories, but I want to end with a story of hope. When I was a medical student, I worked night shifts to support the nurses, as students often do to earn a little extra money. I worked on a children's cancer ward. There was a little girl there, six years old, who had both a reticulosarcoma and an osteosarcoma. She survived both, for many years. Then the cancer returned. And she survived a second time. She went on to live a full life. She completed her education, built a career, raised a family and had two children. All her hopes became reality. And I think this must also be the motto of our work: to turn the hopes of people into reality. Thank you again for allowing me to address you today. This was very important for me. And I wish you all a wonderful session.”
  Vaccination
• 2026-06-04 “E-000933/2026 Reply The Honourable Members are invited to put this question to the Commission, as it falls within its sphere of competence.”
  Child poverty policy · EU expenditure on social policy
• 2026-06-04 “E-001144/2026 Reply It is an essential principle of EU restrictive measures that the fundamental rights of targeted persons and entities must be respected. That is why EU restrictive measures are regularly reviewed and, if necessary, amended. The Council reassesses the circumstances pertaining to each listed person and entity and determines whether changes to the legal acts should be made. In the case of Niels Troost and Maya Bolotova, the Council decided as part of a review of the restrictive measures that their listings should not be maintained. A decision to include or remove individuals and entities from the EU’s list of restrictive measures in the regime concerned requires unanimity in the Council on the basis of an initiative or proposal from EU Member States or the Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The removal of individuals or entities from the EU’s list of restrictive measures means that the measures against these individuals and entities stop applying to them (e.g. any frozen assets are unfrozen, and/or travel restrictions are lifted).”
  EU-Russia relations (from March 2022)
• 2026-06-04 “E-001048/2026 Reply The listing of a person, group or entity under Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/455 1 must satisfy the conditions laid down in Article 1(1) and (2) of that Council Decision, which provides, for this purpose, definitions of persons, groups and entities ‘involved in terrorist acts’, and of ‘terrorist acts’, ‘terrorist groups’ and ‘structured groups’. Article 2(2) and (3) of the Decision specifies the requirements related to the adoption of a decision by a national competent authority in respect of the persons, groups and entities concerned. Article 2(4) of Council Decision (CFSP) 2026/455 also allows the imposition of restrictive measures on persons, groups or entities associated with those listed in Annex I to the Decision. The Council is not in a position to comment on any proposals that may or may not be under deliberation until the process is finalised and the decision published in the Official Journal. As regards coordination with the United States on drug-related matters, cooperation to combat transnational organised crime and drug trafficking is a central focus of the longstanding EU-US dialogue on Justice and Home Affairs held twice a year at ministerial and senior officials’ level. The EU and the United States also regularly hold a dedicated EU-US dialogue on drugs in order to exchange information, strengthen bilateral cooperation and improve the coordination of action undertaken at global level to address drug-related issues. 1 OJ L, 2026/455, 26.2.2026, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2026/455/oj”
  EU relations with left-wing Latin America
• 2026-06-04 “P-000646/2026 Reply ‘Euskadi Ta Askatasuna’/‘Tierra Vasca y Libertad’ – ‘E.T.A.’ is included in the list of persons, groups and entities to which Article 4 of Council Common Position 2001/931/CFSP applies, as set out in the Annex to Council Common Position 2009/468/CFSP of 15 June 2009 (Council Common Position 2009/468/CFSP of 15 June 2009 updating Common Position 2001/931/CFSP on the application of specific measures to combat terrorism and repealing Common Position 2009/67/CFSP).”
  EU competences on foreign affairs
• 2026-05-22 “President Sheinbaum, Dear Claudia, Yesterday, I had the privilege of sharing a deeply enriching exchange with a group of Indigenous women at the Museum of Anthropology. Their wisdom, strength, and leadership are a powerful reminder of the richness and resilience of the Mexican Indigenous peoples. They presented me with this beautiful rebozo. And it is an honour for me to wear on this historic occasion. Their communities have preserved knowledge, culture, and dignity across generations. Our responsibility is to listen, to stand alongside them with humility, and to support them. Strengthening gender equality is one of the many values shared by the EU and Mexico. Today we adopted a Joint Declaration on Trade and Gender Equality. So that our modernized agreement benefits women and men equally. And we launched 6 new projects worth 4 million euro, this is 80 million pesos. They all aim to fight violence against women and girls in Mexico and provide them with the support they need. Our Global Agreement, signed in 1997, was among the most ambitious Europe had ever concluded. The agreement was truly “global” from the outset, as it brought together political dialogue, cooperation, trade, and investment. And today, we upgraded this broad platform, I want to thank Commissioner Šefčovič and Minister Ebrard for their tireless work and skilful steer. We strengthened it, in line with our values. Our joint priorities. And the challenges we share as partners in this world. Our Modernised Agreement deepens our cooperation on human rights. It reaffirms our commitment to multilateralism, peace and global stability. It also anchors our common dedication to equality. Fairness. The empowerment of our people. It reflects our engagements under the Paris Climate Agreement. And for the protection of our planet. In sum, this Agreement reflects who we are as partners. Ambitious, reliable, forward-looking. And ever committed to delivering for our people. This brings me to our trade commitments. The goal here is simple. We want to create even more jobs and value on both sides. With swift ratification, tariffs on virtually all Mexican agri-food exports to Europe will disappear. Imagine the opportunities. European companies, drawn by Mexico's talent and dynamism, already support more than five million jobs here. And there is much more to come. Mexican small and medium-sized producers will benefit greatly. Because this agreement promotes sustainable practices. And it protects iconic Mexican geographical indications, from Tabasco's cocoa to Tequila. The modernised agreement now expands into areas that the original text never anticipated. From digital trade to public procurement. For Europe, the deal will make it easier for companies to invest, provide services, and compete for public contracts in Mexico. Of course, I also have a message for Europe's farmers. Mexico is a vast market for agri-food products. This agreement opens new opportunities for you. By removing tariffs, it can save EU agri-food exporters up to EUR 100 million per year. At the same time, Europe's health, Environment, and food standards remain fully protected. Finally, the agreement safeguards 568 EU geographical indications. From Gouda to Feta. From Prosciutto di Parma to Tiroler Speck. Dear Claudia, Today we give our agreement its big wings to fly by backing it with its own investment plan. An agenda that is fully aligned with your own Plan México. Global Gateway, Europe's investment strategy for the world, is mobilising 5 billion EUR (more than 100 billion pesos) in Mexico. It powers the clean energy transition, with 13 new solar and wind power generation projects. And clean mobility projects – among them, new cable cars for Mexico City. We are also investing in big strategic sectors. The pharmaceutical industry. Digital networks. And the circular economy – with our flagship project on tackling sargassum. This Global Gateway agenda is dynamic and designed to evolve. This is why we are launching today new dialogues on energy, health and digital. Finally, I want to mention our new High-Level Dialogue on security and migration. In Europe and Latin America, these issues are both pressing and complex. This dialogue will allow us to address them comprehensively. From strengthening law enforcement cooperation, to tackling their root causes. Let me conclude, The EU-Mexico relationship has always been vibrant and dynamic. It is rooted not only in shared interests, but also in a shared culture. Thousands of Europeans found safe haven here, during the wars that ravaged our continent in the last century. And I am thinking of the legacy of artists such as Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo, who drew inspiration from their European experience. Their spirit, in many ways, accompanied us throughout this visit. Of course, we share a common passion for football. That is undeniable. And European football supporters are greatly looking forward to the World Cup, which you co-host. Today, I believe we have honoured that rich heritage. By taking our partnership to a whole new level. Thank you very much.”
  Free trade agreements (FTAs)
• 2026-05-22 “Opening remarks President Sheinbaum, President Costa, Dear business leaders from Mexico and Europe, Thank you for joining us today. I look forward to hearing your perspectives and insights with us. But before you do that, I highlight how we – Leaders and governments – are working together to support your work, and your investment in this relationship. Later today, President Sheinbaum and I will sign a modernised Global Agreement. We are removing the remaining barriers to trade. We are facilitating investment. And we are making it easier than ever for businesses in Mexico and Europe to grow together. Let me focus on the three main novelties. First, on investment. We have just announced 5 billion EUR in investments in Mexico, directly supported by our Global Gateway investment plan. The strength of this package lies both in its alignment with Plan México and in cooperation with the private sector. Our focus is to create the conditions for you to step up your investment – and it is encouraging to see that this momentum is already translating into substantial newly announced investments by EU companies. For instance, we are investing in clean energy and electricity lines – because this is the essential infrastructure to power up your businesses. We are supporting Mexican and European ports to decarbonise together – because this will foster clean trade between us. And when European pharma companies told us they wanted to invest here – we joined forces with Mexico to harmonise our rules. The benefits on both sides are clear. Local jobs and technology transfers for Mexicans, and stronger supply chains for both of us. Second, on trade. Since our Global Agreement has entered into force 25 years ago, trade between Mexico and Europe has already quadrupled. For European business, Mexico is an important gateway to the entire Western Hemisphere. Now we are removing almost all barriers that still stand between us. For instance, you will be able to trade critical raw materials with no restrictions or tariffs. Mexico is one of the top global exporters of fluorite, copper and zinc. That is, essential minerals for electrification and the clean transition. This means greater integration between our industrial value chains, at no additional cost. We are building new bridges with one of our most trusted partners. This leads to my third and final point. We are creating a level playing field for Mexican companies operating in Europe and vice-versa. For instance, Mexico's services sector is already important on the European market and is growing fast. Now we will open doors for Mexican companies in sectors such as telecom, financial services, transport, digital trade. Likewise, European companies will now be able to participate in Mexico's public procurement. Not only at the national level, but also at state (regional) level. No other partner enjoys that kind of access in Mexico. Because we trust each other. And we are turning trust into opportunity for Mexican and European companies alike. So our message to business is clear. This is the moment to invest in our partnership. If you are looking for predictability. If you are looking for a compelling business case. If you are looking for open markets in these volatile times. The modernised Global Agreement will give you just that. And with that, I look forward to hearing how we can build on that further, together. Thank you. Concluding remarks Thanks to all of you for your valuable insights and suggestions. What we have just heard proves a simple fact. The ties between Mexico and Europe already run deep. But we are ready to bring this partnership to the next level. The business case for investing in each other is clear. Listening to all of you, three messages come out clearly that I take with me. The first: Mexico is, in your words, a land of opportunity. Our task – yours and ours together – is to keep it that way. That means predictability. It means fairness. It means clear and stable rules, not least in matters of taxation. The second: today we will be shaping the future of our economies. From Artificial intelligence to renewables and clean technology. These are not distant horizons – they are the work in front of us. And the third: our economies fit together. They are complementary by nature, and that is a foundation we should build on with ambition. From Critical Raw Materials to delicious food and drinks: we need each other and benefit from our cooperation. For 25 years, Mexico and Europe have built a trusted economic relationship. But the best times of our partnership are yet to come. Let us deliver on the promises of this partnership in the years to come. Thank you.”
  Free trade agreements (FTAs)
• 2026-05-22 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 22.5.2026 Written question Allegations of cooperation between Marta Kos and the former Yugoslav secret service were raised during the European Parliament’s hearing with the then Commissioner-Designate, prior to the European Parliament’s vote on the appointment of the Commission. In the hearing, the Commissioner-Designate rejected these allegations, stating that she had never been an informant or worked for the Yugoslav secret service. She has confirmed her position in this matter in the context of the Honourable Member’s question [1] . The Commission has no reason to revisit the issue that was addressed in the European Parliament’s thorough vetting process of the candidates who were subsequently appointed as Members of the Commission 2024-2029. [1] Cf pages 33/34 of the verbatim of 7 November 2024 of Commissioner-Designate Marta Kos’ hearing with the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs.”
  Rule of law and democracy in the EU (political compass) · Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-05-19 “Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 19.5.2026 Written question 1. and 2. The general provisions on the Union’s external action in the Treaty on European Union provide that the Union shall ensure consistency between the different areas of its external action [1] . The Council and the Commission, assisted by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, cooperate to that effect. This is without prejudice to the fact that, with the exception of the Common Foreign and Security Policy, it is for the Commission to ensure the external representation of the Union [2] . 3. The Team Europe approach focuses on joining forces, delivering more effectively, increasing global impact and avoiding duplication of efforts, while respecting the division of competences under the Treaties. It aims at bringing together the European Union, its Member States — including their implementing agencies and public development banks — as well as the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. [1] Article 21(3) of the Treaty on European Union. [2] Article 17(1) of the Treaty on European Union.”
  EU competences on foreign affairs
• 2026-04-23 “E-000609/2026 Reply In its conclusions of 19 December 2024, the European Council expressed its deep concern over the consequences of the Israeli legislation adopted on 28 October 2024 on UNRWA’s capacity to operate its mandate and stressed the essential role of UNRWA, which provides crucial support to the civilian population in both Gaza and the wider region. Furthermore, it reiterated its call for the urgent improvement of access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale throughout Gaza 1 . Moreover, in its conclusions of 18 December 2025, the European Council stressed the need for the UN and its agencies to be able to work independently and impartially and called on Israel not to implement the NGO registration law in its current form 2 . As regards the EU-Israel Association Agreement, the Council recalls its replies to written questions E-002313/2025 and E-004880/2025. In its conclusions of 23 October 2025, the European Council deplored the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza and called on Israel to allow immediate, unimpeded access and sustained distribution of humanitarian assistance at scale into and throughout Gaza and to enable the UN and its agencies, and humanitarian organisations, to work independently and impartially to save lives and reduce suffering. Israel must fully comply with its obligations under international law, including international humanitarian law 3 . The European Union will support the rapid, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid in coordination with international partners, including via the Cyprus Maritime Corridor to supplement land routes 4 . 1 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/jhlenhaj/euco-conclusions-19122024-en.pdf. 2 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/wqmknoh4/en-20251218-european-councilconclusions.pdf. 3 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/d2nhnqso/20251023-european-council-conclusionsen.pdf. 4 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/d2nhnqso/20251023-european-council-conclusionsen.pdf.”
  EU Development & Humanitarian Aid · Relations with Israel - Palestine · Support for international humanitarian organisations
• 2026-04-23 “E-000425/2026 Reply The information requested by the Honourable Member is not available to the Council.”
  EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters · Privacy & law enforcement
• 2026-04-23 “P-000015/2026 Reply On 18 December 2025, the European Council agreed to provide a loan to Ukraine of EUR 90 billion for the years 2026-2027 based on EU borrowing on the capital markets backed by the EU budget headroom. By means of enhanced cooperation (Article 20 TEU) in respect of the instrument based on Article 212 TFEU, any mobilisation of resources from the Union’s budget as a guarantee for this loan will not have an impact on the financial obligations of Czechia, Hungary or Slovakia. The text, supported by 25 Heads of State or Government, mentions that: ‘This loan would be repaid by Ukraine only once reparations are received. Until then, these assets will remain immobilised and the Union reserves its right to make use of them to repay the loan, in full accordance with EU and international law’. On 14 January 2026, following the European Council’s agreement, the Commission put forward a proposal for a EUR 90 billion limited recourse loan to Ukraine for 2026 and 2027 (‘the Commission proposal’). The proposed support would be structured in two components, with an indicative distribution of approximately two thirds (amounting to EUR 60 billion) dedicated to supporting Ukraine’s defence industrial capacities, and the remaining one third (corresponding to EUR 30 billion) provided for macro-financial assistance or for budget assistance to be implemented under the Ukraine Facility. The support will help Ukraine strengthen its defence capabilities and ensure the continued functioning of the state and basic public services, while also contributing to Ukraine’s resilience and its closer integration with Europe’s defence industrial base. According to recital 33 of the Commission proposal: ‘The implementation of the assistance to support Ukraine’s defence industrial capacities should be carried out in line with the principles of sound financial management ensuring the protection of the financial interests of the Union as set out in Article 223(4) of Regulation (EU, Euratom) 2024/2509 of the European Parliament and the Council. Detailed requirements in this respect might be entered into an arrangement to be signed between the Commission and Ukraine. Furthermore, for the management of the financial and economic assistance received to support Ukraine’s defence industrial capacities, Ukraine should open a single account via which to manage the assistance, where the Commission should be able to monitor that account’.”
  Russia-Ukraine conflict (10th term) · EU-Ukraine relations
• 2026-04-23 “P-000337/2026 Reply In its conclusions of 9 February 2023, the European Council called on the Commission and the Council to take forward the work on relevant tools, including possible measures against transport operators that engage in or facilitate trafficking in persons or smuggling of migrants. It is not for the Council to answer questions concerning ongoing consultations in other institutions or services. Moreover, the Council is not in a position to comment on a potential new EU sanctions regime addressing migrant smuggling, human trafficking or other forms of organised crime prior to the submission of a formal proposal by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and the European Commission. Once the legal acts have been received by the Council, negotiations will commence in the relevant Council preparatory bodies and at this stage, the Council can foresee neither the outcome nor the duration of these discussions.”
  Asylum & border control
• 2026-04-23 “E-000210/2026 Reply When adopting a decision on authorising the opening of negotiations, the Council acts on the basis of a recommendation submitted by the Commission. The Commission has not submitted any recommendation to the Council on authorising the opening of negotiations on a status agreement on operational activities by the European Border and Coast Guard Agency (Frontex) in Ukraine. European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) Ukraine is mandated to provide strategic advice, mentoring and training for the reform of Ukraine’s integrated border management (IBM), including on maritime aspects, contributing to combating border-management-related corruption, organised crime and transnational crime, and all forms of smuggling. The mission and Frontex agreed a working arrangement on 19 February 2024, allowing for their closer cooperation in the field of border security and integrated border management in Ukraine. The Council has not held any discussions with the Ukrainian government on a potential status agreement between the European Union and Ukraine.”
  Asylum & border control · EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters
• 2026-04-10 “E-000623/2026 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission First and foremost, the Commission recalls that former Commissioner for Justice, as any other citizen, benefits from principle of the presumption of innocence until a possible conviction by the competent judicial authorities. At this stage, and as far as the Commission is aware, the allegations regarding former Commissioner for Justice do not concern the exercise of his duties as Member of the College. The Commission has not conducted any internal investigations following the allegations published in the media regarding former Commissioner for Justice and will not interfere in any investigations which might be carried out by the Belgian competent authorities, yet remaining ready to cooperate with these authorities, where relevant. The Commission is not aware of any allegation of breach of EU rules by former Commissioner for Justice.”
  Rule of law and democracy in the EU (political compass) · Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-03-31 “E-000021/2026 Reply It is not for the Council to comment on articles appearing in the press. As to Member States’ awareness of any plan, we would invite the Honourable Member to address his queries to the Member States in question.”
  EU foreign policy approach · Russia-Ukraine conflict (10th term)
• 2026-03-31 “E-004250/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission As regards transparency, the Commission acts in accordance with the Treaties and the applicable rules adopted on their basis. Those include in particular Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 regarding public access to European Parliament, Council and Commission documents 1 , and the Annex to the Rules of Procedures of the Commission 2 , which sets out detailed rules for access to documents of the Commission, on the basis of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001 and Article 15(3) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU. The Commission has consistently set out, including in replies to previous written questions, how the transparency framework applies to different types of documents and forms of communication. The Commission also cooperates constructively with the European Ombudsman, in line with its institutional role. In its judgment in case T-36/23 3 , the General Court found that the Commission should have provided a more detailed explanation in its decision that it does not hold the text messages requested by the applicants but did not put in question as such the Commission’s policy on registration and retention of documents. The Commission has implemented this judgment by adopting a new decision C(2025) 5429, providing a more detailed explanation, which has not been challenged. The Commission recalls that respect for the rule of law, democracy and fundamental rights is a founding value of the EU and underpins all the Commission’s actions. In light of the above, the Commission considers itself in full compliance with the rule of law. 1 OJ L 145, 31.5.2001, pp. 43–48. 2 Commission Decision (EU) 2024/3080 of 4 December 2024 establishing the Rules of Procedure of the Commission and amending Decision C(2000) 3614. 3 Judgment of 14 May 2025, Stevi and The New York Times v Commission, T-36/23, EU:T:2025:483.”
  Transparency requirements of EU institutions · Activities of EU Ombudsman
• 2026-03-31 “P-000352/2026 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is committed to transparency in its activities, applying strict rules concerning interest representation. It publishes information on, and minutes of, all meetings held between Members of the Commission and/or Members of their Cabinet and interest representatives, including companies representing the defence sector, in accordance with Commission Decision (EU) 2024/3081 1 since the start of the Commission’s mandate on 1 December 2024. The Honourable Members are invited to consult the information that is publicly available on the transparency website of, respectively, the President of the Commission 2 and Commissioner for Defence and Space 3 . In accordance with Article 5, paragraph 1, of the detailed rules for the application of Regulation (EC) No 1049/2001, annexed to the Rules of Procedure of the Commission 4 (hereinafter, the ‘detailed rules’), ‘any content that constitutes important information that is not short-lived shall be registered pursuant to Article 7 of Commission Decision (EU) 2021/2121 5 ’. Article 5(2) of the detailed rules gives illustrative examples of how to apply the registration criteria of important and not-short lived documents. The detailed rules also clarify that text messaging applications on corporate mobile phones shall not be used for important information that is not short-lived, unless where this is strictly required in the interest of the service and that they shall comply with the Commission’s information technology security recommendations for the automatic disappearance of messages (Article 5 paragraph 4). The Commission has a record-keeping policy as laid down in Commission Decision (EU) 2021/2121, and in its internal guidelines, which provide for criteria for registration of documents, together with the above-mentioned provisions in the detailed rules. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=OJ:L_202403081. 2 https://commission.europa.eu/about/organisation/president/transparency_en. 3 https://commission.europa.eu/about/organisation/college-commissioners/andrius-kubilius_en#transparency. 4 Commission Decision (EU) 2024/3080 of 4 December 2024 establishing the Rules of Procedure of the Commission and amending Decision C(2000) 3614 (OJ L, 2024/3080, 5.12.2024, ELI: http://data.europa.eu/eli/dec/2024/3080/oj). 5 Commission Decision (EU) 2021/2121 of 6 July 2020 on records management and archives (J L 430, 2.12.2021, p. 30–41) (https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec/2021/2121/oj/eng).”
  Transparency requirements for interest groups · Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-03-19 “E-004338/2025 Reply Further to the adoption of Directive (EU) 2024/1385, the Council reaffirmed its commitment in its conclusions of 17 October 2025 on ‘violence against women and domestic violence: prevention, early detection and intervention’ 1 , explicitly noting that women and girls are disproportionately exposed to gender-based violence, including its most extreme and brutal manifestations such as femicide. Article 44 of Directive (EU) 2024/1385 provides for obligations in relation to data collection and research. In order to ensure the comparability and standardisation of administrative data across the Union, Member States must endeavour to collect administrative data on the basis of common disaggregations developed in cooperation with and in accordance with the standards developed by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE). The deadline for the transposition of the Directive is 14 June 2027. In its abovementioned Council conclusions, the Council called on the European Commission and the Member States to improve the data collection, analysis, publication and use of data on violence against women and domestic violence. In the framework of the Council of Europe Convention on preventing and combating violence against women and domestic violence (‘Istanbul Convention’), a thematic discussion on preventing and combating gender-related killings/femicide was held at the Committee of the Parties’ meeting on 11 December 2025. As the Union is a party to the Convention, it participated in the discussion and the Commission debriefed the Council’s competent working party on the outcome. 1 https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-13244-2025-INIT/en/pdf.”
  Gender roles, equality and inclusion
• 2026-03-03 “E-004415/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission As indicated in the answer to written parliamentary question E-001110/2025, the Commission publishes in the transparency register, information on all meetings, including minutes, held by the Head of Cabinet, The Digital Adviser and the Diplomatic Advisor of the Commission President with interest representatives, among others, arms industry representatives. In addition, Members from the Commission President’s Cabinet exchanged emails and other correspondence with representatives of the arms industry to respond to invitations, congratulatory messages, or requests for meetings with the President which were shared with the Honourable Member in access to documents request EASE/2025/5658. In addition to the documents disclosed already to the Honourable Member, the Commission identified one more letter (ARES 2024/6937003) which in the spirit of good cooperation it shared with the Honourable Member via the EASE 1 platform on 9 February 2026 with reference 2026/0474. 1 Electronic Access to European Commission Documents (EASE).”
  Arms export from the EU
• 2026-03-03 “E-003849/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission The reply from the Spokesperson’s Service during the Midday briefing on 2 October 2025 was provided within the context of acknowledging the intentions of those involved, which is consistent with the values the EU upholds, such as respect for fundamental rights and support for relief efforts. The Spokesperson’s Service operates within its mandate, supporting the President and Commissioners in effectively communicating with the press. The Commission recognises the challenges in delivering aid to Gaza and remains in constant contact with the Member States and Israel regarding the humanitarian situation. It has acknowledged several times the right of the activists on board of the flotilla to raise awareness about the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, freedom of assembly being integral part of the EU values within democratic societies. As such, they should not have been subject to attacks by drones or any other means. Nevertheless, the Commission also expressed its concerns about the risks the activists on board of the flotilla were taking and the need to comply with international law of the sea. The Commission is committed to upholding the freedom of navigation under international law of the sea and calls for establishing pathways for the delivery of aid to ensure its safe and lawful passage. The Commission promotes humanitarian efforts, in full respect of international law, and is committed to maintaining this balance in its communications.”
  EU foreign policy approach
• 2026-03-03 “E-004159/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is committed to evidence-based policymaking. Furthermore, the Commission attaches the utmost importance to the adherence by the members of the Commission to the ethical framework applicable to them and notably to their full observance of the Code of Conduct for the Members of the European Commission 1 . Pursuant to Article 5 of the Code of Conduct, the members of the Commission must comply with the duty of loyalty towards the Commission. Without prejudice to their fundamental freedom of expression and the right of members to express their personal opinions, they are expected to abide by the restraint that their office requires. In particular, members shall not make any comments that would call into question a decision taken by the Commission or which may harm the Commission’s reputation. This being said, it is the Commission policy not to comment on hypothetical situations such as captured in the Honourable Member’s written question. The Commission does not have sufficient details to provide a relevant reply of the substance. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:32018D0221(02).”
  Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-02-16 “E-003804/2025 Reply The listing of a person, group or entity under Council Common Position 2001/931/CFSP (‘CP 931’) has to satisfy the conditions laid down in Article 1(2) to (4) of that Common Position, which provides a definition of persons, groups and entities ‘involved in terrorist acts’ and a definition of ‘terrorist acts’ for this purpose, and which specifies the requirements related to the adoption of a decision by a national competent authority in respect of the persons, groups and entities concerned. The ‘competent authority’ means a judicial authority, or, where judicial authorities have no competence in the area covered by this paragraph, an equivalent competent authority in that area. Currently, there are 13 individuals and 22 groups and entities on the so-called ‘EU terrorist list’, which are active both within and outside the EU. The Council reviews the list at regular intervals and at least every six months. The issue of listing Antifa raised by the Honourable Members has not been discussed in the Council.”
  Disinformation & online freedoms
• 2026-02-16 “E-004133/2025 Reply The listing of a person, group or entity under the Council Common Position 2001/931/CFSP has to satisfy the conditions laid down in Article 1(2) to 1(4) of that Common Position, which provides definitions of persons, groups and entities ‘involved in terrorist acts’ and of ‘terrorist acts’ for this purpose, and specifies the requirements related to the adoption of a decision by a national competent authority in respect of the persons, groups and entities concerned. Currently, there are 13 individuals and 22 groups and entities, active within and outside the EU, on the so-called ‘EU terrorist list’. The Council reviews the list at regular intervals and, at least, every 6 months. The Council has not discussed the question of ‘Antifa’ raised by the Honourable Member.”
  EU policy on criminal justice · Rule of law in Spain
• 2026-02-05 “P-004435/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission reminds that, as any other citizen, the former Commissioner for Justice mentioned in the question benefits from the presumption of innocence until proven guilty according to law. This is a fundamental principle enshrined in the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (Article 48) and led down in EU secondary legislation 1 . 1. The Commission has not been involved in any investigations regarding the charges brought against the former Commissioner for Justice and is not aware of any link between him and any Russian oligarch. 2. The Commission has no information on the arts foundation referred to by the Honourable Members. 3. At this stage and based on the currently available information, the Commission has no reason to perform any audit linked to the exercise by the former Commissioner for Justice of his duties as Member of the Commission. 1 Directive (EU) 2016/343 on the strengthening of certain aspects of the presumption of innocence and of the right to be present at the trial in criminal proceedings (Article 3).”
  EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters · Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-01-30 “E-003112/2025 Reply The European Union (EU) has the power to adopt restrictive measures, which are preventive, temporary and reversible. Restrictive measures are based on Article 29 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) for decisions under the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), and Article 215 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) for implementing those measures through EU regulations. While the decision-making process you are referring to – where the Council can take decisions to impose restrictive measures on natural persons – rests on the above-mentioned legal bases, the rules regarding the deliberations of the Council are laid down in its Rules of Procedure, in particular Articles 6 to 10 thereof. As regards respect for the right to be heard, according to the established case-law, ‘in the case of the initial decision placing a person’s or an entity’s name on the list of persons and entities whose funds are frozen, the Council is not required to inform the person or entity concerned beforehand of the grounds on which it intends to rely in order to list that person or entity. So that its effectiveness may not be jeopardised, such a measure must, by its very nature, be able to take advantage of a surprise effect and to apply immediately’ 1 . Furthermore, in accordance with its obligations the Council consistently ensures the communication of its decisions, including the grounds for listing, to the listed persons and informs them about possible actions before the Court of Justice of the EU. This communication is done either directly, if the address is known, or through the publication of a notice, providing such persons with an opportunity to present observations, including through legal representation. In terms of judicial review, designated individuals are entitled to it under EU law, primarily under Article 47 of the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. That Article guarantees the right to an 1 See judgment of 27 July 2022, RT France v Council, T 125/22, EU:T:2022:483, paragraph 80 and the case-law cited”
  Disinformation & online freedoms · EU competences on human rights
• 2026-01-30 “E-002889/2025 Reply In its conclusions of 23 October 2025, the European Council welcomed the agreement reached on the first phase of the Comprehensive Plan to end the Gaza Conflict. To alleviate the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, the European Council called for immediate, unimpeded access and sustained distribution of humanitarian aid at scale into and throughout Gaza and for the UN and its agencies, and humanitarian organisations, to be able to work independently and impartially. The European Union will continue to contribute to peace efforts and to actively engage with partners on the next steps. It will support the rapid, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid in coordination with international partners, including via the Cyprus Maritime Corridor to supplement land routes. With regard to restrictive measures, to date, under the thematic EU Global Human Rights Sanctions Regime (EUGHRSR) adopted by the Council in December 2020, the EU has introduced measures targeting individuals, entities, and bodies, including both state and non-state actors responsible for, involved in or associated with serious human rights violations and abuses worldwide. In July 2024, Tsav 9, an Israeli organisation, was listed for having regularly blocked supply trucks delivering humanitarian aid, including food, water and fuel, to Gaza. Restrictive measures include travel bans for individuals, asset freezes for individuals and entities and a prohibition on making funds or economic resources available to those listed.”
  Support for international humanitarian organisations · Relations with Israel - Palestine
• 2026-01-30 “P-003904/2025 Reply The Council regularly discusses threats to EU critical infrastructure, including threats posed by drones and hybrid campaigns. However, it is not for the Council to produce findings concerning incidents. The Council also supports close cooperation among Member States to strengthen the protection and resilience of EU critical infrastructure. To this end, a Council recommendation on a Union-wide coordinated approach to strengthen the resilience of critical infrastructure and a Council recommendation on a blueprint to coordinate a response at Union level to disruptions of critical infrastructure with significant cross-border relevance were adopted in December 2022 and June 2024, respectively. These acts complement the Directive on the resilience of critical entities (CER) and the Directive on measures for a high common level of cybersecurity across the Union (NIS 2), both adopted in December 2022.”
  Cybersecurity investments for critical infrastructure
• 2026-01-30 “E-004278/2025 Reply The Council has not discussed this question, as it does not fall within its sphere of competence.”
  Transparency requirements for interest groups · Transparency requirements of EU institutions
• 2026-01-30 “E-003111/2025 Reply The European Union (EU) has the power to adopt restrictive measures, which are preventive, temporary and reversible. Restrictive measures are based on Article 29 of the Treaty on European Union (TEU) for decisions under the Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP), and Article 215 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union (TFEU) for implementing those measures through EU regulations. Regarding compatibility with the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union (the EU Charter), listed individuals and entities are entitled to judicial protection under EU law, primarily under Article 47 of the EU Charter. That Article guarantees the right to an effective remedy and a fair trial. Restrictive measures, such as asset freezes or travel bans, can be challenged before the Courts of the EU by the designated individuals and entities. The Courts ensure a review of the lawfulness of all Union acts in the light of the fundamental rights that form an integral part of the EU legal order. The listed individuals are informed about the possibility of such recourse individually or through a notice published simultaneously with the legal acts. On the other hand, Article 52(1) of the EU Charter permits limitations on EU Charter rights if such limitations are provided for by law, respect the essence of the right and are necessary and proportionate to objectives of general interest (such as peace, international security, EU foreign policy goals). The EU restrictive measures meet these criteria, since they are adopted on a clear Treaty basis, pursue objectives of general interest recognised by the Union, respect the essence of the rights and are proportionate to the objectives they pursue. The decision-making process you are referring to, where the Council can take decisions to impose restrictive measures on natural persons, is based on Article 29 TEU under the CFSP, and Article 215 TFEU for implementing those measures through EU regulations.”
  Disinformation & online freedoms · EU competences on human rights
• 2026-01-30 “E-003288/2025 Reply The listing of a person, group or entity under Common Position 2001/931/CFSP has to satisfy the conditions laid down in Article 1(2) to (4) thereof, which provides a definition of persons, groups and entities ‘involved in terrorist acts’ as well as of ‘terrorist acts’ for this purpose, and which specifies the requirements related to the adoption of a decision by a national competent authority in respect of the persons, groups and entities concerned. Currently, there are 13 individuals and 22 groups and entities on the so-called ‘EU terrorist list’, which are both active within and outside the EU. The Council reviews the list at regular intervals and at least every 12 months. The Council has not discussed the inclusion of drug cartels on the list of persons, groups and entities covered by the measures in Articles 2 and 3 of Common Position 2001/931/CFSP, nor the issue raised by the Honourable Member in question two. The EU drugs policy priorities are set out in the EU Drugs Strategy 2021-2025 1 . It takes an evidence-based, integrated, balanced and multidisciplinary approach to the drugs phenomenon at national, EU and international level. The Strategy covers three policy areas: drug supply reduction including enhancing security; drug demand reduction including prevention, treatment and care services; and addressing drug-related harm. It also incorporates a gender equality and health equity perspective, and complements national policies. The new EU strategic framework on drugs, which will replace the current EU Drugs Strategy, is currently under preparation in close cooperation between the Council and the Commission. 1 EU Drugs Strategy (2021-2025) (OJ C 102I of 24.3.2021, p. 1)”
  EU-Venezuela relations · EU-Cuba relations · EU-US relations
• 2026-01-30 “E-002149/2025 Reply The EU lifted its economic sanctions on Syria to support its inclusive political transition, as well as its swift economic recovery, reconstruction, and stabilisation, in line with a gradual and reversible approach. The EU maintained sanctions related to the Assad regime in line with its call for accountability as well as sanctions based on security grounds, including arms and technology that might be used for internal repression. The Council has assessed that, despite the fall of the al-Assad regime and the establishment of the transitional authorities, the situation in Syria remains unstable and al-Assad’s network, spread inside and outside Syria, has not yet been held accountable and cannot be considered dissolved. Since listed individuals and entities linked to the al-Assad regime continue to hold powerful influential roles and pose a risk of supporting, through financing or other means, further armed conflict, and may play a part in attempts to reverse the transition and, they may continue to be sanctioned. The EU has also introduced additional sanctions against human rights violators and those fuelling instability in Syria. The Council will continue monitoring developments on the ground, including progress on accountability with regard to recent violence outbreaks, and the Council will remain seized on the matter of restrictive measures and sanctions in the context of Syria 1 . The Council approved on 23 June 2025 conclusions on Syria 2 , reaffirming the EU’s commitment to standing with the Syrian people, regardless of their ethnic or religious background and to supporting a peaceful and inclusive, Syrian-led and Syrian-owned transition. All Syrians should have the chance to finally reunify, stabilise and rebuild their country, restore justice and ensure accountability. The European Union also welcomed the commitment by Interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa and the transitional government to build a new Syria based on national reconciliation, rule of law, separation of powers, as well as human rights and fundamental freedoms for all Syrians without distinction, fully safeguarding the diversity of the country. 1 Council statement of 20 May 2025 on the lifting of EU economic sanctions on Syria; https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-9176-2025-INIT/en/pdf. 2 Council conclusions of 23 June 2025 on Syria; https://data.consilium.europa.eu/doc/document/ST-10688-2025-INIT/en/pdf.”
  EU-Syria relations
• 2026-01-30 “E-003828/2025 Reply On 29 September, the Council prolonged its restrictive measures in view of the situation in Nicaragua by another year, until 15 October 2026. The Honourable Member is invited to address the second question directly to the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. The Council will continuously review its restrictive measures as part of a set of measures to address the situation in Nicaragua. As regards any other measures, the Honourable Member is again invited to address their question directly to the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.”
  EU relations with left-wing Latin America
• 2025-12-10 “E-003391/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is committed to upholding transparency and ensuring that all its public statements and communications are based on verified and accurate information. Regarding the specific case mentioned by the Honourable Member, the Commission can confirm that the aircraft carrying the President of the Commission to Bulgaria experienced Global Positioning System (GPS) interference. However, the plane landed safely. The incident was investigated and verified by the Bulgarian Air Traffic Services Authority. Additionally, the Bulgarian Prime Minister issued a statement 1 confirming the radio interference on the President’s flight. The Commission’s approach to addressing foreign information manipulation and interference (FIMI), including disinformation, involves collaboration with Member States, EU institutions, online platforms, and civil society. Part of this approach involves addressing systemic risks on very large online platforms, while fully respecting fundamental rights, and promoting access to accurate and reliable information, including through supporting independent journalism and media. Additionally, the European External Action Service exposes FIMI actors and operations. 1 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IUdi4z0l6D0.”
  EU-Russia relations (from March 2022) · Disinformation & online freedoms
• 2025-12-09 “E-003842/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission Since the reply given to the previous question made by the Honourable Member on the same issue, no new elements have been brought to the Commission’s attention. Therefore, the Commission has to reiterate that, at this stage, the amount of the legal costs connected to case T-36/23 have not been liquidated and it is not yet possible to quantify them.”
  Accounting and auditing of EU budget
• 2025-12-09 “E-003605/2025 Reply Under Article 14(5) of the Agreement between the European Union and Georgia on the facilitation of the issuance of visas, each Party is entitled to suspend the Agreement in whole or in part for reasons of public order, the protection of national security or the protection of public health. The Council found that actions taken by Georgia breached the fundamental principles on which the Facilitation Agreement was concluded and went against the interests of the Union and its Member States. The Council therefore found it appropriate and proportionate, in order to protect public order in the Member States and in the Union, that Member States require a visa from Georgian citizens holding valid diplomatic passports who travel to the Union, as those persons represent interests that are contrary to those that led the Union to conclude the Facilitation Agreement in the first place.”
  EU-Georgia relations
• 2025-12-09 “E-003995/2025 Reply In the European Union, the arrest and surrender of requested persons is handled through the European Arrest Warrant (EAW), which is an entirely judicial procedure. The Council does not comment on individual surrender proceedings between national judicial authorities.”
  EU law enforcement cooperation in criminal matters
• 2025-12-09 “P-003504/2025 Reply The legislative proposal referred to by the Honourable Members is still being discussed within the Council, which has not yet adopted a position. Discussions between the European Parliament and the Council regarding this proposal have not yet begun, and the Council does not answer hypothetical questions.”
  Privacy & detection of online child abuse · Artificial Intelligence
• 2025-12-08 “E-003469/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission is concerned by the growing number and intensity of antisemitic incidents and anti-Israeli actions in the EU. Antisemitism is a threat to democracy and the Commission is determined to fight it in all its forms and manifestations, in line with its EU antisemitism strategy 1 . Ensuring the security of EU citizens as well as of tourists is essential for the Commission and all Member States. Violent attacks, intimidation and security threats on individuals have no place in the EU. The 2008 Framework Decision on combating racism and xenophobia 2 requires Member States to criminalise public incitement to violence or hatred based on ethnic origin or religion. The Commission monitors its correct transposition. However, it is for national authorities to ensure an effective investigation and prosecution of individual hate offences, including when motivated by antisemitism. The Commission has been supporting cooperation between national authorities and experts to improve knowledge and exchange practices on fighting antisemitism 3 . The European Internal Security Strategy-ProtectEU 4 places the ‘protection of people, especially those most vulnerable to attacks … including Jewish and Muslim communities, … at the heart of the EU’s work on security’. The Internal Security Fund 5 supports the protection of Jewish places of worship. The new EU Agenda for Preventing and Countering Terrorism and Violent Extremism will include actions to tackle antisemitism and protect places of worship. 1 https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/policies/justice-and-fundamental-rights/combattingdiscrimination/racism-and-xenophobia/combating-antisemitism/eu-strategy-combating-antisemitism-andfostering-jewish-life-2021-2030_en. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/dec_framw/2008/913/oj/eng. 3 An example is the successful collaboration preventing and countering violent extremism including antisemitism involving 14 Member States and the EU Knowledge Hub on Prevention of Radicalisation. 4 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX%3A52025DC0148. 5 https://ec.europa.eu/info/funding-tenders/opportunities/docs/2021-2027/isf/wp-call/2023-2025/call-fiche_isf2024-tf2-ag-protect_en.pdf.”
  Jewish culture and antisemitism
• 2025-12-08 “E-003687/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission 1. The EU’s migration policies aim to ensure effective and sustainable management of migration and to bolster the protection of its external borders. The Pact on Migration and Asylum aims to prevent abuse, tackle illegal migration and alleviate pressure on national systems. The Commission is also planning to propose to enhance Frontex and Europol to address border security and organised crime. The Commission will also present the EU Strategy on Combating Antisemitism and Fostering Jewish Life 1 to protect communities and uphold shared values from prejudice. As announced in ProtectEU – a European Internal Security Strategy 2 , the Commission works on a new EU Agenda to prevent and counter terrorism and violent extremism. 2. NextGenerationEU has been key for Europe’s economic recovery after the COVID-19 crisis, enabling investments and reforms for fair growth and modernisation of infrastructure. The Commission takes action to foster innovation, strengthen competitiveness, support EU societies, sustain EU’s social model and quality of life. This includes initiatives, such as the roadmap set out under the Competitiveness Compass, the Affordable Housing Plan, or the Anti-Poverty Strategy. 3. The Commission focuses on safeguarding a strong democracy and upholding EU values, amid increasing attacks and attempts of anti-democratic forces. The European Democracy Shield counters foreign information manipulation and interference, enhances media literacy, while applying the Media Freedom, Digital Services and Artificial Intelligence Acts 3 fosters secure and informed societies. Actions to strengthen the rule of law ensure societies and economies work, safeguard EU fundamental rights, protect democracy and tackle corruption. 1 COM/2021/615 final. 2 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0148. 3 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1083/oj/eng, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2022/2065/oj/eng, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1689/oj/eng.”
  EU competences on human rights · EU political integration
• 2025-12-08 “E-003528/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen On behalf of the European Commission The Commission is deeply committed to multilingualism, which reflects the cultural and linguistic diversity of the EU, and therefore makes every effort to provide information in all 24 EU official languages. The State of the Union is a particularly important moment for the EU’s democracy during which the Commission President is ‘taking stock of the current year and looking ahead to priorities for the following years’ 1 . As in previous years, the Commission services and staff ensured timely publication of the President’s State of the Union address as well as related documentation, e.g. the letter of intent. All 24 language versions of both the State of the Union address and the letter of intent were translated and published on the dedicated webpage 2 after the President finished the speech. Said documents were sent for translation as early as possible with a view to sharing all 24 language versions with EU citizens rapidly upon publication. 1 https://eur-lex.europa.eu/LexUriServ/LexUriServ.do?uri=OJ:L:2010:304:0047:0062:EN:PDF. 2 https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/state-union/state-union-2025_en.”
  Multilingualism in EU institutions
• 2025-12-08 “E-003525/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission The Commission invited a group of 25 content creators from across the EU to attend the delivery of the 2025 State of the Union Address. They joined a group of other content creators invited by the European Parliament. The selection of the participants tried to ensure a diversity of nationalities, profiles, and topics of interest. The group represented a wide geographical spread, ranging from Portugal to Sweden, from France to Latvia, from Luxembourg to Bulgaria. It also brought together creators focusing on different thematic areas, including youth opportunities, geopolitics, and democracy. The content creators were invited as visitors, with no requirement to produce or share content. They had full editorial freedom. The Commission covered their travel expenses to and from Strasbourg, as well as accommodation costs, in accordance with standard reimbursement rates. The objective of the Commission’s engagement with content creators is to reach out to citizens from all walks of life and communicate openly and transparently.”
  Budget for EU politicians · Accounting and auditing of EU budget
• 2025-11-27 “E-003234/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission As laid out in Article 10(1) of the Code of Conduct 1 , members of the College of Commissioners may ‘participate in European politics as members of European political parties or organisations of the social partners at European level provided that this does not compromise their availability for service in the Commission and the priority to be given to their Commission duties over party commitment’. The post was published during the 2022 European People’s Party (EPP) Congress in Rotterdam. The President attended the meeting in her capacity as President of the Commission and congratulated a fellow European leader. The Guidelines on ethical standards for the participation of the Members of the Commission in the election campaign to the European Parliament 2 were adopted in January 2024 and implemented for the European Parliament elections in June 2024. 1 Code of Conduct for the Members of the European Commission of 31 January 2018, 2018/C 65/06, https://eurlex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32018D0221(02). 2 Guidelines on ethical standards for the participation of the Members of the European Commission in the election campaign to the European Parliament, 24.1.2024, https://commission.europa.eu/system/files/2024-01/participationof-ec-members-in-ep-election-campaign-guidelines_en_1.pdf.”
  Budget for EU politicians
• 2025-11-21 “E-003493/2025 E-003421/2025 Answer given by President von der Leyen on behalf of the European Commission The Strategic Dialogue is an inclusive and collaborative process aimed at addressing critical challenges facing the sector and ensuring its continued success as a major driver of the European economy. As stated in the Industrial Action Plan for the European automotive sector 1 that was the outcome of the first two meetings of the Dialogue, the sector is undergoing a structural transformation of unprecedented speed and magnitude. To ensure the broadest possible participation in the preparation of the Action Plan, the Commission invited input from more than 100 organisations in dedicated thematic dialogues, among them also the Automotive Regions Alliance. The Strategic Dialogue has shown its value as a forum of exchange between the President of the Commission and representatives of the industry. For practical reasons, the size of the group cannot be expanded further to allow sufficient time for all participants to express themselves. This is not merely a matter of organisational efficiency but an essential requirement to ensure effective exchange. The Commission is consulting stakeholders extensively in the preparation of the proposals announced in the Action Plan. The Committee of the Regions, under whose auspices the Automotive Regions Alliance has been formed, will also be consulted on the legislative proposals. 1 COM(2025) 95 final, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=celex:52025DC0095.”
  Road transport environmental policy · EU Competition policy
• 2025-11-18 “E-002407/2025 Reply The EU continued to pursue its critical engagement towards Cuba under the EU-Cuba Political Dialogue and Cooperation Agreement (PDCA). The Council follows the implementation of the PDCA and the political dialogues it establishes, including the ones in April 2024 on Unilateral Coercive Measures and on Sustainable Development and in October 2024 on the Non-Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction and on Illegal Trade of Small Arms and Light/Conventional Weapons. Any change in policy would require a unanimous decision by the Council of the EU.”
  EU-Cuba relations
• 2025-11-18 “E-003131/2025 Reply The listing of a person, group or entity under Common Position 2001/931/CFSP (CP 931) has to satisfy the conditions laid down in Article 1(2) to (4) thereof. These paragraphs set out a definition of persons, groups and entities ‘involved in terrorist acts’ and a definition of ‘terrorist acts’ for this purpose, and specify the requirements related to the adoption of a decision by a national competent authority in respect of the persons, groups and entities concerned. The Muslim Brotherhood is not included in the list of persons, groups and entities covered by the measures in Articles 2 and 3 of CP 931. The Council has not discussed the matter raised by the Honourable Member.”
  EU policy on Islam
• 2025-11-18 “P-002725/2025 Reply Information regarding EU sanctions is publicly available and can be accessed via the EU Sanctions Map 1 , the EU Sanctions Tracker 2 and the Financial Sanctions Database 3 . The specific reasons that led the Council to list Hüseyin Doğru can be found in Annex I of Council Decision (CFSP) 2024/2643 and in Annex I of Council Regulation (EU) 2024/2642. Useful information can also be found in the Council Document Register 4 , which provides access to various meeting documents (agendas, minutes, conclusions, votes, outcomes) of the following three bodies: preparatory bodies (Coreper I and II), Council of the European Union, European Council. The Council does not disclose further information on its deliberations in relation to restrictive measures. 1 https://www.sanctionsmap.eu/#/main 2 https://data.europa.eu/apps/eusanctionstracker/ 3 https://data.europa.eu/data/datasets/consolidated-list-of-persons-groups-and-entities-subjectto-eu-financial-sanctions?locale=en 4 https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/documents/public-register/meeting-documents/”
  Foreign interference in Europe · EU-Russia relations (from March 2022)
• 2025-11-18 “E-002416/2025 Reply The United States continues to consider participation in the enhanced border security partnership (EBSP) an important criterion for participation in its Visa Waiver Program, as confirmed at the EU-US Justice and Home Affairs ministerial meeting in early June 2025. Given the intrinsic link to EU competence on visa policy, in 2024 the Permanent Representatives Committee (Coreper) asked the Commission to submit a recommendation for a Council Decision to negotiate, on behalf of the Union, an agreement which would address these issues. On 23 July 2025, the Commission submitted a recommendation to open negotiations on a framework agreement between the European Union and the US on the exchange of information for security screenings and identity verifications relating to border procedures and applications for visa. The Council is currently discussing it.”
  Asylum & border control