European Commission president calls for energy and defence independence

Ursula von der Leyen has called for Europe to strengthen its independence in energy, defence and security, warning against excessive reliance on external partners.

Speaking at the European Political Community summit in Yerevan, she said the EU must expand its domestic energy capacity, particularly in renewable and nuclear sectors.

Von der Leyen noted that Europe remains heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels, leaving it exposed to volatile global markets. She said increasing locally produced energy would make supply more affordable and reliable.

She also identified defence and security as a second key area requiring greater autonomy, stressing the need to strengthen Europe’s military capabilities to ensure it can protect itself.