Washington hails a diplomatic success after months of conflict with Iran, yet analysts warn the outcome may simply restore the...
Read More
International-News
Von der Leyen: plan to rearm Europe and flexibility for the automotive industry
European Commission President announces measures to strengthen defence and sustainable mobility
Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, announced today that she will present a plan to rearm Europe ahead of the next European Council. In a statement to the press in Brussels, she stressed the importance of a ‘massive increase in defence’ to ensure ‘lasting peace’ in Ukraine and the rest of Europe. ‘Lasting peace is built only by force,’ he said, indicating that the plan would be shared with member states tomorrow through an official letter.
The plan to rearm Europe
Von der Leyen made it clear that the strengthening of European defence is a strategic necessity to face the current challenges. The plan, which will be discussed with European leaders, aims to ensure the security and stability of the continent. She emphasised that strength starts with strengthening internal defence capabilities, adding: ‘This is the purpose of the plan I will present tomorrow.
Flexibility for the automotive industry
In addition to the defence issue, von der Leyen also announced a ‘targeted amendment’ to the European Co2 emission standards for vehicles. During a strategic dialogue with the automotive sector, he acknowledged the difficulties the industry is facing in the transition to cleaner mobility and proposed to lengthen compliance times.
Under the new plan, car companies will have three years to meet emission reduction targets, instead of the current annual compliance. ‘We have to listen to requests for more flexibility,’ said von der Leyen, emphasising that despite the extended timeframe, the emission reduction targets will remain unchanged.
A balance between pragmatism and sustainability
She explained that this balanced approach will allow the industry more breathing space without compromising its sustainability commitments. ‘It means more clarity for industry, without changing the agreed targets,’ she said, adding that she is confident that the proposal will be approved quickly by the European Parliament and the Council.
With these statements, Ursula von der Leyen has drawn a clear line both for the future of European defence and for environmental sustainability, trying to balance the continent’s economic and security needs.
THE LATEST NEWS
Trump halts US ground operation in Iran for enriched uranium
13 Giugno 2026
Pentagon plans were prepared and briefed at the highest level, but concerns over escalation, casualties and economic fallout led to...
Read More
The United States-Iran ceasefire memorandum: Geneva Lake possible signing
13 Giugno 2026
Negotiations continue over location and conditions as diplomatic framework advances between Washington and Tehran Lake Geneva is being considered as...
Read More
Trump Claims US–Iran Deal Reached as Markets React With Caution
11 Giugno 2026
The US president announces on Truth Social that strikes against Iran have been cancelled after an alleged agreement involving multiple...
Read More
Trump Signals Continued Military Pressure on Iran Amid Fragile Negotiations Over Nuclear Deal and Oil Assets
11 Giugno 2026
U.S. President Donald Trump reiterates threats of sustained strikes and strategic pressure on Iran while diplomatic channels remain open over...
Read More
Bill Gates Testifies in Jeffrey Epstein Inquiry, Denies Knowledge of Crimes
10 Giugno 2026
Bill Gates told the U.S. House Oversight Committee he had no awareness of Jeffrey Epstein’s criminal activity and called their...
Read More
(Photo: © AndKronos)
