Germany's von der Leyen seeks second term as EU Commission chief
Ursula von der Leyen, the current European Commission President, has declared her intent to pursue a second term, aiming to continue as the leading executive in the European Union.
Her candidacy could solidify her as a prominent figure for Europe's 450 million residents, following her leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Ukraine crisis, which prompted extensive policy reforms across the economy, energy, and security sectors.
Her party, the German Christian Democratic Union (CDU), supports von der Leyen’s bid, with confirmation expected from the European People’s Party (EPP) during their upcoming Bucharest meeting.
Addressing a CDU conference, von der Leyen reflected on her heightened appreciation for Europe's potential and the accomplishments achieved during her tenure amidst global changes.
Von der Leyen’s announcement concludes recent speculation about her political future in Brussels. Riding on the advantage that the EPP may keep its majority in the legislature after the European Parliament elections in June, her extension as Commission President appears likely.
This political campaign unfolds amid growing fears over Russian influence and the possibility of Donald Trump returning to U.S. presidency, against which von der Leyen has pledged to safeguard the EU from divisive forces.
Her party, the German Christian Democratic Union (CDU), supports von der Leyen’s bid, with confirmation expected from the European People’s Party (EPP) during their upcoming Bucharest meeting.
Addressing a CDU conference, von der Leyen reflected on her heightened appreciation for Europe's potential and the accomplishments achieved during her tenure amidst global changes.
Von der Leyen’s announcement concludes recent speculation about her political future in Brussels. Riding on the advantage that the EPP may keep its majority in the legislature after the European Parliament elections in June, her extension as Commission President appears likely.
This political campaign unfolds amid growing fears over Russian influence and the possibility of Donald Trump returning to U.S. presidency, against which von der Leyen has pledged to safeguard the EU from divisive forces.