“The European Plan for Defense Readiness 2030 provides 360-degree coverage”, said the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyenpointing out that the EU’s security is about protecting its borders, which today is focused in the east and tomorrow could be in the south.

At the press conference shortly after the end of the European Council in Brussels, the Ursula von der Leyen held that the discussion of the plan “Readiness 2030” was positive and highlighted the four flagship defense projects of common European interest:

  • the drone wall,
  • monitoring the East Wing,
  • Space Defense and
  • the European Air Defense Shield.

On her subject Ukrainianthe Commission President welcomed the adoption by the EU of the 19th sanctions package which “beats at the heart of the Russian war economy.” At the same time, he characterized “very welcome move” the US announcement of sanctions against the Russian oil sector. “We will continue to pressure Russia as long as necessary” and “we will stand by Ukraine as long as necessary”, said the President of the Commission.

About it “Indemnity Loan” for Ukraine to be mobilized by the frozen Russian assets, h Ursula von der Leyen he said that the discussion that took place today in the European Council made it possible to identify the points that still need to be clarified and added that the Commission would come back to them. He underlined that the European Council, in its conclusions, is committed to responding to Ukraine’s economic needs.

On the same subject, the President of the European Council, Antonio Costa reported no one vetoed today and expressed confidence that this n “important political decision”. He appeared optimistic that it is possible to resolve the technical issues of the “Reparations Loan for Ukraine, based on frozen Russian assets in the EU”, insisting that “a solution is possible” and that next December a final decision will be made. He also mentioned that this matter was discussed with the President of the ECB, Christine Lagardeand with the President of the Eurogroup, Pascal Donahue who consider that the solution proposed by the European Commission respects European and international law.

For her competitiveness and the climateo Antonio Costa stressed that the European Council reaffirms its commitment to the Paris Agreement and agreed that “we must be realistic and flexible in our strategy”. He also agreed that “Europe’s climate ambitions and the competitiveness of our economy, our industries, must go hand in hand.”

Finally, about her subject housingo Antonio Costa stressed that European leaders must also focus on the everyday concerns of European citizens. “Housing affordability and accessibility are among the most pressing, concrete issues for millions of Europeans”he said and added that in this area the responsibilities remain at the national, regional and local level. He said that today’s political debate prepared the Affordable Housing Plan of the European Commission.