From Athens to Brussels: Ursula von der Leyen’s Campaign to Safeguard Europe’s Values

EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, representing the centre-right European People’s Party (EPP) in the upcoming European Elections, has pledged to confront the rise of far-right elements she identifies as “Putin’s friends,” who she believes seek to undermine Europe’s unity and future.

Addressing the audience at the 50th anniversary celebration of Greece’s ruling New Democracy party, Von der Leyen launched her campaign with a sharp critique aimed at Russian President Vladimir Putin and his allies within Europe.

She highlighted the multifaceted challenges Europe faces both internally and externally, emphasising the need for vigilance and unity as the continent navigates complex geopolitical dynamics.

Von der Leyen outlined a series of threats confronting Europe, including Russia’s aggressive actions such as cyber attacks, social media manipulation, and exploitation of migrant flows.

She pointedly referred to certain political entities within Europe as “Putin’s friends,” accusing them of attempting to distort history and seize control of Europe’s destiny through populist and demagogic tactics.

The EPP’s lead candidate for another term at the helm of the EU Commission emphasised the importance of resisting such forces, declaring, “In the days, weeks, and months ahead, our job is to fight back.”

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, who alongside his Polish counterpart Donald Tusk endorsed Von der Leyen’s candidacy for a second term, echoed her sentiments, cautioning against experimentation and advocating for active participation in the upcoming EU elections.

Mitsotakis criticised socialist and left-wing opposition parties, attributing Greece’s prolonged economic crisis to populist obstructionism.

In terms of defence, Von der Leyen stressed the necessity for increased collective spending in Europe, highlighting Greece’s commitment to allocating over 2% of its GDP to defence.

She underscored defence cooperation as a cornerstone of Europe’s future, promising to champion this cause throughout her campaign.

On the economic front, Von der Leyen advocated for strengthening Europe’s social market economy and enhancing competitiveness, endorsing initiatives such as the Green Deal as pathways to sustainable growth and environmental stewardship.

The choice of Athens as the launch site for Von der Leyen’s campaign holds symbolic significance, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of Greece’s New Democracy party and the historic signing of Greece’s accession to the European Communities at Zappeion Hall in 1979.

Amidst accolades for Greek Prime Minister Mitsotakis’s economic stewardship and firm stance against external pressures, criticism has arisen from Greek opposition quarters.

Members of the European Parliament from leftist parties have voiced concerns over the timing of Von der Leyen’s campaign launch, citing ongoing challenges to the rule of law in Greece and recent resolutions passed by the EU Parliament highlighting issues such as media independence and privacy infringements.

Despite opposition critiques, Von der Leyen’s campaign kickoff in Athens signals a firm commitment to confronting the rise of divisive forces within Europe and rallying support for a vision of unity, resilience, and progress.

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