Von der Leyen calls for changes in EU foreign policy

Main Information

• Ursula von der Leyen advocates for a change in the EU’s foreign policy towards a more pragmatic and interest-focused approach.
• The EU is criticized for its handling of the conflict with Iran and for potentially weakening the role of the EU’s foreign policy chief.
• The EU responds to the conflict with Iran through humanitarian aid and explores options to mitigate the impact of the conflict on trade routes.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, calls for a change in approach to the EU’s foreign policy. She believes that the continent can no longer rely on a rule-based system to protect its interests in a rapidly changing world. Von der Leyen argues that the EU should adopt a more pragmatic and interest-focused foreign policy that reflects current geopolitical realities.

Criticisms of Von der Leyen’s Management

Ursula von der Leyen’s statements come as her handling of the recent conflict with Iran faces numerous criticisms. Some accuse her of overstepping her role in diplomatic efforts, risking undermining the position of Kaja Kallas, the EU’s chief diplomat.

While the Commission President avoided directly criticizing the United States and Israel for sparking hostilities, she highlights the brutal repression by the Iranian regime against its population and its destabilizing actions in the region. She also emphasizes the humanitarian crisis caused by the conflict, marked by mass displacement and a paralysis of essential sectors like energy, finance, and trade.

EU’s Response to the Crisis

In response, the EU has committed to providing humanitarian aid to those affected in Lebanon. Von der Leyen and António Costa, President of the European Council, have also held discussions with leaders of various regional countries to show solidarity and explore ways to mitigate the conflict’s consequences.

These discussions included enhancing existing maritime defense operations to protect sea lanes and supply chains in the Red Sea. This reflects the EU’s growing concern about the possibility of conflict escalation and disruption of vital trade routes. (Fact Check)