Ursula von der Leyen delivers state of the union address

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is scheduled to present the annual State of the Union (SOTEU) address today in Strasbourg at the European Parliament. The speech outlines the European Union's political direction for 2027 and provides an assessment of the Commission's activities over the past twelve months.

Key topics expected in the address include the ongoing war in Ukraine, the strengthening of European defense capabilities, and the search for strategic autonomy amidst geopolitical and trade tensions. Other central themes are European competitiveness against the United States and China, immigration policy, EU expansion, and climate policy, particularly in response to recent environmental disasters. Sources note that von der Leyen will likely reaffirm support for Kyiv, with the possibility of announcing new sanctions against Russia.

This year's speech takes place in a complex international environment marked by security challenges, energy concerns, and the need for innovation in the industrial sector. The session serves as a crucial platform for the Commission to set the legislative and policy agenda for the upcoming year.