peaking at the European Council, President Roberta Metsola delivered a compelling address, urging European leaders to seize the moment and assert Europe’s position on the world stage.
Her speech highlighted a range of pressing issues, from the war in Ukraine to enlargement within the European Union, and emphasised the need for unity, decisive action, and strategic leadership.
A Call for Unity and Purpose
President Roberta Metsola began her speech by stressing the importance of unity as the defining factor for Europe’s future. “If there is one thing that will define our continent in the coming years, it is our capacity to remain united in purpose,” she stated.
Reflecting on 2024, she acknowledged Europe’s achievements but warned that in 2025, stepping up will be essential to solidify Europe’s global standing. “We have little other choice,” she asserted, setting the tone for a speech rooted in urgency and pragmatism.
Ukraine: A True and Lasting Peace
The ongoing war in Ukraine featured prominently in Metsola’s address, with particular attention paid to the challenges posed by potential shifts in U.S. military support under a Trump presidency. Metsola emphasized the need for intensified efforts to achieve a “true and lasting peace.”
“When it comes to Ukraine, we need to intensify our efforts to move towards peace. But not just any peace—not some false version of peace peddled by Russia, but a true and lasting peace. Peace with dignity, peace with freedom, peace with justice,” she said.
She reiterated the importance of maintaining support for Ukraine through President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s Peace Plan Formula and Victory Plan, stressing that Europe must act strategically to keep Ukraine in a position of strength. “Nothing about Ukraine without Ukraine” must remain the guiding principle, she urged.
As Ukraine faces another harsh winter amidst war, the European Parliament is ramping up efforts to protect the country’s energy infrastructure. Metsola underscored the necessity of mobilizing global allies to ensure Ukraine remains a priority on the international agenda and receives widespread support.
Addressing Russian Interference and the Need for Enlargement
Beyond Ukraine, Metsola highlighted the broader threat of Russian interference in Moldova, Georgia, and the Western Balkans, describing it as one of Europe’s most pressing security concerns. She called for a renewed focus on EU enlargement, emphasizing that it is not merely a bureaucratic process but a geopolitical necessity.
“We all agree—because we have been saying that enlargement is a geopolitical necessity for years. Yet, over the last decade, we have lost more Members than we have gained. My point is that if we continue to drag our feet, then we should not be surprised if others step in to fill the void,” she warned.
Metsola praised recent progress, such as the historic decision to fully integrate Romania and Bulgaria into the Schengen Area, which she described as well-deserved. However, she urged leaders to accelerate efforts in countries like Georgia and Moldova, where citizens are actively demanding a European future.
She also called for genuine reforms and effective implementation as prerequisites for enlargement, ensuring that the process remains merit-based and aligned with EU criteria.
Supporting Democratic Movements in Belarus and Beyond
Turning to Belarus, Metsola condemned the upcoming “Presidential elections” scheduled for January 26th, describing them as a stark reminder of the country’s lack of freedom and democracy. She urged European leaders to demonstrate real leadership and take decisive actions to support a free and democratic Belarus.
“When people turn their eyes to Europe, they deserve to see real European leadership, real decisions, and real actions,” she stated. Her comments underscored the importance of standing by democratic movements in the region and amplifying their voices on the global stage.
Addressing Crises in the Middle East and Syria
Metsola also addressed ongoing crises in the Middle East, pointing to the recent ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon as a “glimmer of hope.” While acknowledging the temporary relief it provides, she emphasised that peace cannot rely on hope alone.
“Our calls for the release of hostages will remain steadfast. Our calls for a ceasefire will remain resolute. Our efforts toward de-escalation will remain strong. And our work for long-term peace must remain unwavering,” she declared.
In Syria, Metsola painted a grim picture of a nation ravaged by the brutal regime of Bashar al-Assad. She called on European leaders to intensify engagement with regional partners to find solutions, warning that the consequences of inaction would be dire.
Honouring Democratic Leaders in Latin America
Shifting focus to Latin America, Metsola celebrated the recipients of the 2024 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, Edmundo González Urrutia, Venezuela’s legitimate President-elect, and María Corina Machado, leader of the democratic forces in the country.
“In this critical moment, we need to remain united by maintaining our support so that Edmundo González Urrutia can return home next month to take his rightful place as President,” she said, reaffirming Europe’s commitment to supporting democracy worldwide.
Europe’s Role in a Global Context
Throughout her speech, Metsola emphasised the interconnectedness of Europe’s challenges and its responsibility to act decisively on the global stage. From Ukraine to the Western Balkans, from the Middle East to Latin America, Europe has a role to play in shaping a more stable and just world.
“Dialogue, unity, respect for fundamental rights, and international law must guide the way forward. Now is our moment to step up,” she said, urging European leaders to rise to the occasion and fulfill the promise of Europe.
President Metsola’s speech at the European Council was a powerful call to action, emphasising the need for unity, strategic leadership, and decisive action in the face of complex global challenges. She presents her vision for Europe is one of strength, solidarity, and responsibility, reminding leaders of the continent’s potential to shape the world for the better.
As Europe faces critical decisions in 2025 and beyond, the time for action is now.
Main Image: Daina Le Lardic © European Union 2024 – Source : EP
