Story perspectives

Ursula von der Leyen Calls for Realistic EU Foreign Policy

3/9/2026

Summary

Story summary

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, urged Europe to adopt a more realistic foreign policy.
Speaking to EU ambassadors, she emphasized redefining Europe’s geopolitical role and strengthening security and defense capabilities.
She urged integrating security into all EU policies and pursuing global economic partnerships.
The EU aims to project its power assertively while remaining committed to humanitarian efforts in the region.

History

Historical Context

The Treaty of Rome, signed on March 25, 1957, established the European Economic Community (EEC) to promote economic integration among six founding nations: Belgium, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and West Germany. This treaty laid the foundation for the European Union, which now comprises 27 member states, as it seeks to redefine Europe's geopolitical role amid global challenges and enhance collective security.

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Story summary

Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, urged Europe to adopt a more realistic foreign policy.
Speaking to EU ambassadors, she emphasized redefining Europe’s geopolitical role and strengthening security and defense capabilities.
She urged integrating security into all EU policies and pursuing global economic partnerships.
The EU aims to project its power assertively while remaining committed to humanitarian efforts in the region.

1 / 2