The 2025 State of the Union address, delivered by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, was framed as Europe’s “Independence Moment”. She warned that Europe is “in a fight for our future” – for democracy, liberty, and the freedom to determine its own destiny. Central to her message was the call for unity between Member States, EU institutions, and democratic forces to strengthen Europe’s resilience.

Von der Leyen reaffirmed Europe’s unwavering support for Ukraine, announcing a Reparations Loan based on immobilised Russian assets, a Qualitative Military Edge programme, and a Drone Alliance. She underscored the need for a stronger European defence posture through “Readiness 2030”, the “Eastern Flank Watch”, and common investment in capabilities.

Beyond security, the speech addressed urgent global crises, from the war in Gaza to the climate emergency. She called for renewed efforts on the two-state solution, an ambitious European climate agenda, and measures to protect competitiveness through digital and clean technologies. New initiatives included the Scaleup Europe Fund, a Clean Industrial Deal, a European Affordable Housing Plan, a Small Affordable Cars initiative, and a “Buy European food” campaign.

Von der Leyen also highlighted democracy and social justice, proposing a European Democracy Shield, a Media Resilience Programme, protections for children online, and an Anti-Poverty Strategy. Migration, energy independence, and global partnerships were positioned as defining challenges of the decade.