Browsing: Ursula von der Leyen

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated the proposed “European preference” aims to prioritise EU-made products in public procurement, essential for enhancing competitiveness and reducing dependency on foreign imports. Industry leaders warn of supply chain disruptions and increased costs.

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, proposed that countries unable to reach consensus on economic policies should form smaller groups to advance initiatives, ahead of a pivotal summit aimed at strengthening Europe’s economy against US and China pressures.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen will meet French President Emmanuel Macron today amidst increasing discussions on direct talks between Europe and Russia, with Macron recently dispatching diplomat Emmanuel Bonne to Moscow, reflecting a shift in diplomatic strategy.

On 2 February, Israel reopened the Rafah crossing into Gaza, marking progress in the US-brokered ceasefire with Hamas, according to Martin Konečný, director of the European Middle East Project. The reopening follows the return of the last Israeli hostage.

The European Commission plans a new round of sanctions against Russia, including a proposed ban on maritime services for vessels carrying Russian oil, as officials consult G7 partners. This development comes as the war nears its fourth year, impacting energy revenues and sanctions enforcement.

Leaders of the socialist and liberal groups in the European Parliament have expressed concerns to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen about European Commission Vice-President Raffaele Fitto’s and Defence Commissioner Andrius Kubilius’s attendance at a political event in Slovenia, potentially breaching internal conduct rules ahead of elections.

The European Commission has proposed a new round of sanctions against Russia, aiming to weaken its war economy, according to Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The plan includes a full ban on maritime services linked to Russian crude oil, aiming to increase pressure on Moscow ahead of the war’s fourth anniversary.

EU lawmakers, led by German MEP Bernd Lange, agreed to resume work on the EU-US trade deal, initially suspended due to tariff threats from US President Donald Trump. The move aims to provide certainty for European businesses amidst ongoing tensions over territorial sovereignty.

An extraordinary plenary session of the European Parliament, initiated by Parliament President Roberta Metsola, will take place on 24 February to approve a €90 billion loan to Ukraine, coinciding with the fourth anniversary of Russia’s invasion.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen plans to visit Australia later this month to advance a stalled trade agreement, contingent on upcoming negotiations between EU Trade Commissioner Maroš Šefčovič and Australian Trade Minister Don Farrell.