Munich, Germany – European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has cautioned the United States that Ukraine’s failure would have serious consequences for both European and American security.
“A failed Ukraine would not only weaken Europe but also the United States,” von der Leyen stated in a forceful speech at the Munich Security Conference.
Both the European Union and the U.S. share the goal of ending the conflict in Ukraine, with both sides agreeing that Kyiv requires “strong security guarantees.”
“Ukraine needs peace through strength, Europe desires peace through strength, and (…) as President Trump has emphasized, the United States is fully committed to peace through strength,” von der Leyen remarked, echoing a common stance of the Trump administration.
She also highlighted Europe’s significant financial and military contributions to Ukraine, subtly addressing Trump’s concerns that Europe is not doing enough.
“The total financial and military support provided amounts to €134 billion. That surpasses any other contributions,” she pointed out.
Trade Disputes and Tariff Concerns
Regarding the potential for a transatlantic trade conflict, von der Leyen criticized Washington’s approach, asserting that “trade wars and punitive tariffs are counterproductive.” Her statement was met with applause from the audience.
This week, U.S. President Donald Trump reinstated tariffs on steel and aluminum imports, reviving measures from his first term. On Thursday, he announced plans for new “reciprocal” tariffs, which could significantly impact European trade.
In response, the European Commission has pledged to retaliate swiftly against any such tariffs, signaling a firm stance in trade negotiations with Washington.
Speaking in Munich, von der Leyen reaffirmed that any unjustified tariffs imposed on the EU would not go unchallenged.
