“President von der Leyen has sought to promote pro-European cooperation in the face of multiple crises. But she faces a major problem within her own political family, where too often, narrow partisan interests and frequent cooperation with the far right undermines the unity and ambition that Europe so desperately needs,” said Vula Tsetsi, European Green Party Co-Chair.
“This summer made it undeniable: the climate crisis is here, and action is more urgent than ever. While President von der Leyen reaffirmed her support for ambitious 2040 targets and praised those on the frontlines, she also spoke of nuclear energy and massive fossil fuel imports from the US, moves that undermine the Green Deal.
The Commission President must act now with political coherence: very ambitious investments in the Green Deal with urgency, backed by fiscal flexibility, and coherent MFF, and strong climate policies going into the upcoming COP in Belem. Every fraction of a degree counts. Only bold investment can deliver a just transition that protects lives, nature, and jobs, leaving no one behind.”
“Europe cannot claim that its foreign policy is guided by values, but be selective about where these values apply. We continue to stand with Ukraine against Russia’s war of aggression, and recognize the importance of the European Commission’s strong response. We stand with the Palestinians facing genocide at the hands of Israel and with Serbians trying to secure their future in the EU, against autocrat Aleksandar Vučić, who is still supported by the EPP.”
“Europe’s Eastern border states are especially vulnerable to Russian aggression. This has never been more evident than today, when, in a shocking violation of EU sovereignty, Russian drones violated Polish airspace, which we condemn strongly. Our full solidarity is with Poland,” said Vula Tsetsi, European Green Party Co-Chair.
“The measures which Von der Leyen finally announced today to tackle the Israeli genocide in Gaza are welcome, but long overdue. Over the last almost two years her Commission has remained silent and impassive, as the genocide against Palestinians has accelerated. The EU must impose a full arms embargo, suspend the EU–Israel Association Agreement and move to recognize the state of Palestine. Netanyahu must be named and held accountable for the crimes he is committing,” said Ciarán Cuffe, Co-Chair of the European Green Party.
European solidarity must extend beyond our borders. A truly European response to migration is one that protects fundamental rights, upholds international law, and ensures solidarity between peoples and member states.”
“Von der Leyen was clear that on digital and environmental regulation the EU sets its own standards. She must now ensure this commitment is not watered down. EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) should be fully applied, regardless of international pressures.”
“Yet the EU-US trade deal has shown that the EU is on the back foot. It will drive up prices, at a time when people in Europe are already struggling with inflation, rising rent and precarious work. This deal must be revisited in such a way that prioritizes people and the planet over profit, and so that the geopolitical credibility of the Union is not undermined” said Cuffe, Co-Chair of the European Green Party.
