Europe must realize that a new world order is currently taking shape and be prepared for defense, as Russia, while continuing its aggression against Ukraine, is also preparing for an attack against European democracies.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated this today in Copenhagen during a speech to the audience at the Royal Danish Military Academy.
"The era of peace dividends is long gone. The security architecture we relied on can no longer be taken for granted. The age of spheres of influence and power struggles has truly returned. Take Russia, for example. We already know its intent to deny other countries the right to choose their own path. And now, Russia has embarked on an irreversible path of creating a war economy. It has massively expanded its military-industrial production capabilities. Forty percent of the federal budget is spent on defense—9% of GDP. These investments fuel the aggressive war against Ukraine and prepare Russia for a future confrontation with European democracies," Ursula von der Leyen said.
She pointed out that at this very moment, as these threats have increased, Europe's oldest partner—the United States—has shifted its focus to the Indo-Pacific region.
"We may wish that these things were not true. Or that we didn’t have to speak about them so frankly. But now is the time to speak honestly so that every European understands what is at stake. Because the discomfort of hearing these words pales in comparison to the pain of war. Ask the soldiers and the people of Ukraine about that. We must see the world as it is and act immediately to counter this. Because in the second half of this decade and beyond, a new international order will be formed," the European Commission president noted.
In this context, she emphasized that Europe is now facing a fundamental choice about its own future. The EU must respond decisively to challenges to build a safer Europe—one that is willing and able to defend itself, preserve its freedom, and protect its prosperity.
Ursula von der Leyen also stressed that in these efforts, Europe remains fully committed to cooperation with NATO and the United States, as their shared security is indivisible. For the same reason, the EU is laying a new foundation for security together with the United Kingdom and other European partners, as well as with neighbors and within the G7 framework—from Canada to Norway, from India to Asian countries.
"As for all young cadets in these countries, your life and career will be dedicated to building and ensuring peace, freedom, and prosperity. But I want you to remember: freedom is not a given. It is a constant struggle. I am not sure if I have the right English word for it, but there is a word in Ukrainian. That word is 'воля' (volya). 'Volya' means freedom, but it also means courage and the will to fight for freedom. It is the duty of every generation. It is what we are working for. Because Europe is more than just the European Union—it is our home," the European Commission president said, addressing the audience at the Royal Danish Military Academy.
