Von der Leyen to Europe: Take Responsibility for Your Own Security Amid Shifting Transatlantic Ties

December 17, 2025 | Europe | Security | Geopolitics

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered a stark message to the European Parliament in Strasbourg today: "Europe must be responsible for its own security. This is no longer an option. It is a must."

In a pointed response to criticisms from Washington, she added: "We, Europeans, cannot afford to let the worldviews of others define us." This comes as the Trump administration's newly released National Security Strategy highlights Europe's declining share of global GDP and warns of broader challenges, noting that the United States faces similar economic trends.

Von der Leyen's remarks underscore a growing push for European strategic autonomy, amplified by uncertainties in U.S. commitments under President Trump, including pressures on NATO allies to boost defense spending and questions over unwavering support for Ukraine.

Building on her calls for Europe's "independence moment" since September, von der Leyen emphasized the need for readiness in a "dangerous and transactional" world. She stressed that supporting Ukraine remains the "most important act of European defense," urging leaders at this week's European Council summit to secure funding—primarily from Europe—for Kyiv's needs in 2026-2027, estimated at €137 billion.

The subtext is clear: With transatlantic relations evolving and NATO's traditional guarantees under scrutiny, Europe is accelerating efforts to build independent capabilities. Initiatives include enhanced border monitoring against hybrid threats, such as drone incursions from the east—evoking talks of a "Drone Wall" along eastern frontiers—and prioritizing EU-based production in defense projects.

As Europe navigates this pivotal shift, von der Leyen's vision is one of self-reliance: stronger deterrence, resilient supply chains, and unified action—without waiting for external permissions.