European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for the European Union to reduce its overdependency on imported fossil fuels and shift focus to home-grown, affordable, clean energy supply. Speaking on August 22, she emphasized that the bloc must learn from the ongoing energy crisis, which she described as the second within four years.
Energy Independence as a Priority
Von der Leyen stressed that the EU's reliance on imported fossil fuels makes it vulnerable to external shocks. She advocated for a diversified energy mix that includes both renewables and nuclear power, while respecting technology neutrality. “The lesson should be very clear. Our overdependency on imported fossil fuels makes us vulnerable. … We must reduce our overdependency on imported fossil fuels and boost our home-grown, affordable, clean energy supply. From renewables to nuclear, in full respect of technology neutrality,” she stated.
Middle East Ceasefires and Stability
On the Middle East, von der Leyen expressed the EU's desire for ceasefires in Iran and Lebanon to hold, stressing the urgent need to re-establish peace and stability through diplomatic means. However, she warned that the consequences of the conflict could persist for months or even years. The EU is committed to supporting diplomatic efforts to ensure long-term stability in the region.
