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Von der Leyen Calls for Faster EU Decision-Making in Defense

Published February 14, 2026, 12:11
Von der Leyen Calls for Faster EU Decision-Making in Defense

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for faster decision-making within the EU in the field of defense and security, proposing the use of qualified majority voting instead of unanimity. Ms. von der Leyen emphasized that Europe faces an unstable geopolitical environment, exacerbated by Russian aggression in Ukraine and pressure on democracies. She stressed that the credibility of mutual defense depends on speed and trust between member states, urging them to activate the mutual assistance clause in defense. The President of the Commission stated that old assumptions about European security have been overturned and Europe must take responsibility for its own defense. She also proposed the institutionalization of more flexible forms of cooperation in the field of defense, both within and outside of NATO, citing the Joint Expeditionary Force under British leadership as an example. Ms. von der Leyen emphasized that the mutual assistance clause is not a political choice, but a legal and strategic obligation of the Union, ensuring support for each member state in the event of an attack. Her speech was delivered at the Munich Security Conference 2026, where she presented a vision for a more autonomous and decisive Europe. In summary, Ms. von der Leyen promoted a paradigm shift in European defense, calling for faster decision-making processes, activation of mutual defense mechanisms, and taking responsibility for European security in an environment of increasing geopolitical challenges.

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