Politics
Von der Leyen Charts Strategic Path for Europe’s Future at Budapest EPC Meeting
European Commission President emphasizes transatlantic ties, economic resilience, and defense preparedness as EU leaders focus on competitive, sustainable, and secure Europe
At the European Political Community (EPC) meeting in Budapest, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined a strategic vision for Europe’s future, emphasizing transatlantic relations, economic resilience, and defense preparedness.
Von der Leyen began by congratulating Donald J. Trump on his recent electoral victory, expressing eagerness to strengthen the transatlantic bond. This gesture underscores the EU‘s commitment to robust relations with the United States, a key ally in addressing global challenges.
The President highlighted Europe‘s unity in overcoming recent crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the energy challenges stemming from Russia’s war in Ukraine. She stressed the importance of continued collaboration to navigate future challenges.
Central to her address were three strategic priorities:
- Joint Plan for Competitiveness, Digitalization, and Decarbonization: Von der Leyen referenced the Draghi Report, authored by former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, which calls for substantial EU investments to enhance competitiveness and address climate goals. The report recommends annual investments of €750 billion to €800 billion to keep pace with global competitors like the U.S. and China. Euronews
- Reducing Overdependencies and Leveling the Economic Playing Field: The President emphasized the need to mitigate Europe‘s reliance on external entities, fostering a more balanced economic environment. This aligns with Draghi’s recommendations for a comprehensive industrial strategy to prevent the EU from lagging behind global competitors. Financial Times
- Enhancing Defense Capabilities and Preparedness: Drawing on the Niinistö Report by former Finnish President Sauli Niinistö, von der Leyen advocated for bolstering Europe’s defense mechanisms. The report suggests that the EU allocate 20% of its budget to security and crisis preparedness, addressing geopolitical tensions and climate change risks. Financial Times
Von der Leyen’s address reflects a proactive approach to Europe’s future, building on expert insights to navigate complex global dynamics. Her call to action underscores the EU’s commitment to unity and strategic planning in the face of evolving challenges.
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President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree to strip 34 traitors of state awards to Ukraine
The document, published on the official website of the Ukrainian president, puts into effect the decision of the National Security and Defense Council to strip persons considered traitors to Ukraine of state awards, UNIAN reported.
These persons include former civil servants, deputies, heads of the SBU and the Prosecutor General’s Office, prosecutors, artists, as well as Russian political, religious and cultural figures. All of them are deprived of state awards of Ukraine indefinitely.
In addition, ten of them are subject to the maximum package of sanctions – 21 types of measures, including blocking assets, cancellation of licenses and permits, as well as complete cessation of commercial operations.
Key figures on the list:
Alexander Efremov – former first deputy leader of the political party “Party of Regions” and chairman of the corresponding faction. Deprived of the Orders of Merit I-III degree and Prince Yaroslav the Wise V degree.
Renat Kuzmin – former First Deputy Prosecutor General of Ukraine, holder of the Orders of Merit II-III degree and the title of Honored Lawyer of Ukraine.
Viktor Medvedchuk – former deputy and close ally of Russia. Deprived of the Orders of Merit I-III degree and Prince Yaroslav the Wise V degree, as well as the title of Honored Lawyer of Ukraine.
Other famous names:
Dmitry Tabachnyk – former Minister of Education and Science (2010-2014).
Mykola Azarov – former Prime Minister of Ukraine (2010-2014), holder of numerous orders and the title of Honored Economist of Ukraine.
Viktor Pshonka – former Prosecutor General of Ukraine.
Patriarch Kirill – head of the Russian Orthodox Church, deprived of the Order of Prince Yaroslav the Wise I degree.
Artists on the list:
The titles of “People’s Artist of Ukraine” and “Honored Artist of Ukraine” have been stripped from a number of popular Russian performers, including Nikolai Baskov, Philip Kirkorov, Ani Lorak, and Taisiya Povaliy.
Context of the decision:
On November 20, 2024, the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine adopted a bill by President Zelensky that allows for the deprivation of state awards from persons who promote Russia, spread propaganda, or commit other actions against Ukraine.
According to the law, persons deprived of state awards lose all rights and privileges associated with them.
Photo: Ani Lorak / Facebook
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On November 7, Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew sent a congratulatory letter to the newly elected US President Donald Trump, wishing him health, strength and success in his upcoming second presidential term.
“Recognizing the enormous responsibilities of such a leadership position, we pray that your decisions will be guided by wisdom and compassion, as well as by the strength necessary to maintain harmony and security in your great and God-protected nation,” noted Patr. Bartholomew:
“The Ecumenical Patriarchate, with its ancient history and its fundamental commitment to dialogue and reconciliation, remains a constant supporter of all efforts to promote peace and understanding between people of different cultures and beliefs. We hope that under your leadership the United States will continue to support the cause of religious freedom and human dignity – values that resonate deeply in the Orthodox Christian tradition and all faith communities,” the congratulatory letter said.
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