Ursula von der Leyen 21/01/2026 - European Parliament Plenary

European Parliament plenary session (21 January 2026) Address by Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.

In this speech, President von der Leyen sets out how a rapidly changing international environment is reshaping Europe’s priorities, and why the EU needs to accelerate its push for “independence” across security, the economy, technology and democratic resilience. She links current geopolitical pressures to the need for stronger European leverage: a competitive single market, innovation capacity, social cohesion, and credible defence.

Key themes in the address:
Global shocks affecting Europe’s security environment, including developments in Iran, maritime security incidents in the North Atlantic, tensions in the Arctic and around Greenland, continued attacks on Ukrainian civilians and infrastructure, and wider instability from the Middle East to the Indo-Pacific.
A call for Europe to adapt to a world increasingly defined by “raw power” (economic, military, technological and geopolitical) and to respond with faster decision-making and a shift in mindset.
Arctic security and Greenland: why the region matters strategically (critical raw materials, emerging sea routes, security posture) and a clear statement that Greenland’s future is for Greenlanders to decide.
Cooperation with allies: alignment with partners on Arctic security, including work through NATO and examples of practical cooperation (e.g., icebreaker capabilities and allied readiness exercises).
A warning against escalation among allies through additional tariffs framed as “security” measures, and the case for unity, urgency and dialogue while remaining prepared to act if necessary.
A proposed EU approach to strengthen Arctic security, including (1) increased European investment in Greenland’s economy and infrastructure, (2) closer work with partners on wider Arctic security and Arctic-ready capabilities, and (3) a broader reassessment of Europe’s overall security strategy.
Continued support for Ukraine as central to European security, including reference to a European Council agreement to jointly raise €900 million for Ukraine, and a commitment to stand with Ukraine until a just and lasting peace.
Economic security and reducing dependencies: the role of the single market and global trade in resilience, supply chains and de-risking.
Trade policy and partnerships: references to a newly signed EU–Mercosur deal and preparations for an agreement with India, with emphasis on opportunities for European businesses, jobs, and security of supply, alongside safeguards for sensitive agri-food sectors.

Chapters

00:00 Global shocks
01:13 Europe’s independence
03:17 Arctic security
03:25 Greenland sovereignty
04:07 Working with allies
05:28 EU response
05:52 Arctic security package
07:25 Focus on Ukraine
08:42 Economy & dependencies
09:20 Trade deals
10:09 Mercosur debate
11:12 Conclusion


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