The Commission president urged Europe to re-evaluate whether the rules-based order still serves its credibility as a geopolitical actor and to pursue a more independent foreign policy.

They warned that the traditional world order is crumbling due to international law violations, calling for an era of chaos and coercion while defending a rules-based system.

The remarks come amid the Middle East crisis, with discussions of US-Israeli strikes on Iran seen as a breach of norms, while Europe faces existential and precarious moments.

They urged boosting EU defense and deterrence capabilities, expanding trade deals and security partnerships to reduce strategic dependencies.

The speeches reflect ongoing EU debates on adapting diplomatic, legal, and security frameworks to rising tensions, including concrete shifts in strategy and collaboration.

European leaders warned that the rules-based international order is under strain from geopolitical rivalries and legal breaches, urging the EU to adapt its foreign policy and security strategy.

They emphasized diversifying partners and reducing dependencies, pointing to mid-size countries as potential stabilizers in a hostile environment.

The speakers called for reassessing decision-making, especially unanimity requirements, to improve credibility and responsiveness in today’s geopolitical context.

The stance on regional dynamics signals a tough line, with indications of limited mourning for the Iranian regime rather than outright condemnation.

They acknowledged the EU can influence global events but cannot solve every issue, instead setting guiding principles for its foreign policy and engagement.

Von der Leyen called for rethinking decision-making and doctrine to align with rapid changes, noting the EU cannot solve every issue but can steer policies more realistically in its own interests.

Unanimity rules in EU foreign policy were identified as a structural weakness, with veto power hindering unified action, exemplified by Hungary's bloc-breaking veto on a major Ukraine loan.