Speeches

I support the need for clear information for consumers and strengthening their protection, and I welcome the update of the current regulation in response to the challenges of today. Combining regulations and procedures, simplifying administrative procedures and clearer and more coherent rules can only contribute to improving the system of protection for both consumers and producers. That is why I strongly condemn the approach of the rapporteur who tried to use this important report to promote particular national interests at the expense of measured and universally applicable rules as well as unfounded prejudging of the results of the protection of traditional Croatian dessert wine prošek. Existing rules to comply with geographical origin requirements are already sufficiently robust, universally applicable and proven to protect producers of top-quality European products. In the case of Croatian Prosecco and Italian Prosecca, there are substantial differences between the two products and the average European consumer cannot be confused by choosing between dessert, dark syrupy and dense prosecco in a half-litre bottle and aperitif sparkling light Prosecca in a standard wine bottle. The EU legislative process, of which the drafting of the Report is an essential part, should not be based on national exclusivity but on equity and universal applicability.

Mr President, Commissioner, colleagues, during this intense time of geopolitical turmoil, strengthening cooperation with our allies and like-minded partners has never been more important. This report on enhanced EU-Canada cooperation comes at a crucial moment. My congratulations to the rapporteur, Mr Cremer. At times like these, when democratic institutions and rules are continuously threatened, the European Union and Canada must explore new avenues of mutual understanding. Partnerships are not only about broadening economic ties, but about defending the rules-based order. While we face threats to the very existence of our democratic system, enhanced EU-Canada cooperation will send a clear message that democracies have to stand together. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney advocated in his excellent speech, delivered in Davos, even closer cooperation of the so-called 'middle powers' in these times of uncertainty. The European Union and Canada must lead, first of all, global alliance and respecting international law and human rights. And in this respect, Canada and the European Union should serve as a superpower.

Dear Chair, Honourable Commissioners, Colleagues. Today, as many as ten countries are in the waiting room at the door of the European Union. They are all at different stages of the accession process, and the differences between them are simply too great. However, as enlargement policy is one of the priorities of the European Union in this mandate, there is a need to find a way to keep the process from losing momentum. The European Union is not only a common market, a free movement area or a common currency. The European Union is a space of common values, but also a space of risk sharing. Absorption capacities for a new enlargement of the European Union certainly exist. But economic cooperation and peace are no longer the only priorities of enlargement policy. These are also increasingly issues related to security and the preservation of democracy as a system. It is essential for the credibility of enlargement policy that genuinely prepared candidates aligned with our foreign and security policy and the unquestionable rule of law enter the European Union. In today's very threatening geopolitical context, this alignment is more important than ever. Only in this way will we not have to speculate on the dates of the new enlargement, as they will be imposed by the results.

Madam President, Commissioner, actions carried out by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement in several cities across the United States have raised serious concerns that are showing us a picture of increased violence, hostility and tensions that Trump's second mandate has enforced in the past year. Events in Minneapolis are deeply troubling. They raise urgent and fundamental questions about respect for the rule of law and the appropriate limits on the use of force by law enforcement. Accountability and transparency must be at the core of any democratic system. As EU parliamentarians committed to upholding human dignity and norms, I believe we should strongly condemn practices that contribute to heightened violence, hostility and fear. The policies enforced under the current US administration have significant repercussions, not only for the United States' own citizens and residents, but also for the global rule-based order that we seek to preserve.

Madam President, Mr Commissioner, dear colleagues, in times like this, we need to strengthen the European pillar of NATO and advance our long-debated strategic autonomy. It is essential that future European defence and deterrence aligns with our shared capability, priorities and collective needs, echoing the changing times of uncertainty. Since January 2025, US military assistance to Ukraine has dropped sharply. That is why our responsibility for European security architecture is even more important. Any deal on Ukraine that fails to respect Ukrainian resilience or ignores Russian aggression would be deeply harmful, not only for Ukraine, but for Europe as a whole. Furthermore, we need to support investments and measures to back defence cooperation, including with like-minded partners. Finally, regardless of the outcome of the upcoming US midterm elections, we must anticipate future developments in transatlantic relations and plan accordingly. It is vital to act strategically rather than react under pressure.

Mr President, Madam Commissioner, nowadays drones have become the most critical weapons in modern warfare. In the brutal aggression of Russia on Ukraine, they now account for nearly three quarters of recent casualties. Drone warfare is therefore a fundamental transformation of how wars are fought and a challenge for the EU to adapt its defence capabilities. We need to learn lessons from that, and we must strengthen our cooperation with Ukraine to learn best practices. Unfortunately, drones have also been used recently as very dangerous provocations, violating the airspace of several of EU Member States and causing a lot of damage. This method of undermining the EU goes hand in hand with hybrid threats, disinformation and interference. Therefore, it's a must to expand our counter-drone capabilities, particularly by investing in training and operational expertise, as well as adapting to new challenges. The absolute necessity needs to be to protect our critical and vulnerable infrastructure while boosting resilience.

Dear Chairman, we live in a time of profound geopolitical transformations. The tumultuous beginning of the year symbolizes the complexity of these changes. Autocrats are actively undermining the rules-based international order through military intervention, disinformation and the erosion of democratic norms. Unfortunately, they were joined by the leader of our closest ally. It undermines transatlantic relations and everything that was built in the second half of the 20th century through threats, economic coercion and destructive rhetoric. The European Union cannot remain divided in this situation. Let's act decisively, ambitiously, credibly and uniquely. The Common Foreign and Security Policy must become fully developed European policies. Strategic autonomy and credible defence capabilities are not an alternative to NATO, but prerequisites for its survival. Europe’s strength lies in our coherence and political will to respect the principles on which the Union was founded. Let’s continue to support Ukraine, encourage reforming candidate countries and strengthen cooperation with countries that share our democratic values. The European Union's foreign policy must and can be both principled and effective.

First of all, I stress that Nicolas Maduro does not have the legitimacy of a democratically elected President of Venezuela and that the situation in Venezuela during his reign was dramatically difficult, with serious human rights violations. While I hope that recent events can enable a democratic transition, the way the space for change is open can be crucial. In all circumstances, the principles of international law and the Charter of the United Nations must be respected, including sovereignty, territorial integrity and the prohibition of the use of force. Any unilateral action, including that of the United States, outside the legal framework undermines the validity of international law and undermines the sustainability of the democratic transition. To restore stability and quick access to the country's vast oil reserves, the Trump administration clearly shows that it intends to reach an agreement with the remnants of the Maduro regime instead of supporting the democratic opposition. Venezuela's natural resources belong only to its people. They must serve above all the fight against poverty and the sustainable development of the country.

The European Parliament today voted to phase out Russian gas supplies. We must also step up our efforts to counter Russian espionage and other foreign interference. Unfortunately, the central house of our European democracy has for some time been the target of external intrusions aimed at obtaining sensitive information. In the context of the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine, this poses a threat that must not be ignored. Certain political options within this house, primarily from a group of political extremes, are often very vocal in their opposition to the Kremlin sanctions and their resistance to help Ukraine, but remain adequately silent when cases of espionage and foreign interference are detected. The recent case of a former Member of the European Parliament from the United Kingdom is another confirmation of a form that has been going on for years. It includes Russian loans, cooperation agreements with the United Russia, visits to occupied territories to falsely observe elections and take over Russian foreign policy narratives. Having in mind also the traditional openness of the European Parliament, it is essential to establish stricter rules, especially when it comes to in camera meetings. This is particularly important in the work of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Security and Defence. At a time when valuable information is more and more present, spying is more and more present and innovative. Our security culture must be at the necessary level.

Mr President, colleagues, unfortunately, Georgia is a prime example of an EU candidate country heavily derailing from the European course, which is deeply regretful. We all remember images of pro-European Georgians with EU flags on the street, to whom I pay tribute, while heavily condemning the use of violence against them, as well as the threats to civil society and the independent media. We should be especially disgusted by the serious accusations of the use of toxic chemicals against protesters. A full and independent investigation on the matter is a must. The overall democratic backsliding and the downfall to the iron-clad fascist regime mimicking the Kremlin is deplorable. The Georgian Dream ruling turned into a nightmare for Georgian citizens, who overwhelmingly support EU membership. However, it is not too late to set Georgia on the EU path, which is backed by three quarters of its citizens. They have every right to a better, safer and prosperous European future.

Dear President, Mrs. Commissioner, colleagues, the best way to pay tribute to the victims of the fall of the canopy in Novi Sad is to reveal the root of the problems that led to the tragedy. The tragedy in Novi Sad proves that corruption is not an ordinary crime. Corruption destroys institutions and unfortunately takes lives. This accident reflects some of Serbia's main structural problems - the non-transparent involvement of foreign actors in the project and the lack of controls that would allow the facility to be used because safety standards were not respected, obstructing the investigation and independence of the judiciary after the tragedy, and repression against citizens seeking accountability and change. As the Serbian government repeats that it wants to join the European Union, it increasingly deviates from its fundamental values. Progress is measured through concrete reforms, not through uncovered promises. Independent institutions, free media and citizens should be partners of government, not targets of various conspiracy theories. This debate and resolution, of course, is not an attack on Serbia. Europe has not failed Serbia. The government in Serbia is failing its citizens.

Madam President, Commissioner, colleagues, I strongly condemn the recent Russian provocations that serve only to stir divisions and test our capabilities. I have full understanding for all our Member States affected. I also believe that these innovative methods of provocation are a tool used in the same way as disinformation, started through social media some ten years ago. However, these incidents are also a sign of the times – times in which we, as the EU, need to stand together, being aware of our differences, but primarily taking into account the many issues and aspects that keep us together. Colleagues, we must not over-engage in these provocation games, but at the same time, we cannot stay idle and let them pull all their stunts. We have a commitment to our citizens to respond firmly and decisively. That is the only way Putin's regime can understand and respect our message.

Dear Chairman, Commissioner, I support the establishment of peace in devastated Gaza because it is a path to be taken without hesitation. Humanity must overcome the transactional cynicism that dominates global politics at this time. Unfortunately, we are living in a period when extremists have strongly strengthened, while the Oslo Accords and the leaders of that time act as a footnote from the distant past. Especially important is the release of all hostages and the negotiation of a lasting and sustainable peace. Hamas is a terrorist organization and must not play any role in the future regulation of relations within Palestine. However, the Israeli government, made up of political extremists, does not even want to hear about a deal that would preserve Palestinian self-government, let alone lead to the creation of an independent Palestinian state. I regret that the European Union has not shown credibility in this important test. Our disunity has once again put into practice those values that we so often invoke. Too bad, because the programmed suffering of the civilian population in Gaza has tightened the political responsibility of each government of a Member State and of the European Union as a whole.

Dear Chairman, this has unfortunately been a summer of untapped opportunities for Europe when it comes to its relationship with Washington. We export more goods to America, but we import more non-taxable services. The trade relationship with America was balanced even before this agreement, in which there are no legal or political guarantees. Trump has consistently imposed his program of selective tax increases, general deregulation and the imposition of tariffs. As the European Union, blocked by internal disagreements, we are trying to reach the least bad agreement. We follow, we do not lead, and the consequences of a missed action can be long-term. By taking responsibility for their own security and defence, investing in their own energy production would certainly strengthen the global negotiating position. Protecting jobs and competitiveness through investment, but in Europe, strengthening European autonomy and defending the rule of law, in particular our European legislation, must be a priority. The European Union is a global symbol of democratic values and environmental standards. The European Union is the largest single market in the world. So let's use our achievements and boldly correct our shortcomings. Together.

Dear Chair, the escalation of violence against protesters, provocative foreign policy moves, the latest attacks on journalists and the project of full control of the media are the reasons for another serious debate on Serbia in the European Parliament. Insults addressed to members of this parliament, President Vucic has been using against his dissenting voices in Serbia for years. Neighbouring countries are also not spared from the consequences of Belgrade's policies. Meanwhile, there is a lack of European commitments and reforms as the phrases on the Commission's serious concerns have been repeated for years with the continuation of the policy of indulging Vučić's Belgrade. It is paradoxical to enforce 19 generations of sanctions against the Russian regime, and to remain silent about a candidate country for membership whose boss publicly refuses to introduce the same to the aggressor regime. In short, Brussels must not offer Vučić carrots in order for him to deliver beatings to his citizens. Dear Commissioner, I hope that your statement of yesterday signals the beginning of a more credible policy towards Belgrade by the Commission. The European Parliament, the institution that most actively supports the continuation of the enlargement policy, but also most vocally criticizes the undemocratic actions in Serbia, will give you full support on this path.

Madam President, Madam Commissioner and colleagues, when our peace efforts are responded to with drones and missile attacks on civilian infrastructure, government buildings and the EU representation office, the conclusion should be clear to all: there is no genuine will from Putin to talk or act towards peace. While discussions on security guarantees are welcomed, there are more concrete actions we can do now: bolder decisions related to immobilised Russian state assets, energy independence from Russia, and to pursue it in general, to work on a genuine and predictable partnership globally to support international law and Ukraine. Apart from military and economic support, we need sufficient assistance for Ukraine to strengthen its judiciary and the rule of law, while fighting corruption, as rightfully underlined by the report. Progress in these areas is vital for Ukraine now. By defending itself, Ukraine is defending Europe. And by strengthening itself, the European Union can better support Ukraine. Slava Ukraini!

This week we are marking the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide. I express deep reverence for the victims and their families. Only the defense of the truth about the past opens a chance for a better future for generations to come, and that future in Bosnia and Herzegovina remains uncertain. From internal political blockades, threats of secession, contempt of domestic and foreign judgments, to too slow progress on the European path to extremely negative demographic trends. Unfortunately, the dominance of political structures created during the war slows down the true progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Thank you to the Rapporteur for the report covering internal diversity in Bosnia and Herzegovina, constituent peoples and minorities and the need to respect all rulings of domestic and international courts. Once again, messages have been sent underlining our commitment to European Bosnia and Herzegovina. That is why we also need to recognise any positive step forward, such as the adoption of the reform agenda. This is proof that, despite all the obstacles, there is a capacity to thrive. Most people demand the same from the government. Bosnia and Herzegovina is a place in the European Union. Any real move on that path will have our full support.

This week we are marking the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica genocide. I express deep reverence for the victims and their families. Only the defense of the truth about the past opens a chance for a better future for generations to come, and that future in Bosnia and Herzegovina remains uncertain. From internal political blockades, threats of secession, contempt of domestic and foreign judgments, to too slow progress on the European path to extremely negative demographic trends. Unfortunately, the dominance of political structures created during the war slows down the true progress of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Thank you to the Rapporteur for the report covering internal diversity in Bosnia and Herzegovina, constituent peoples and minorities and the need to respect all rulings of domestic and international courts. Once again, messages have been sent underlining our commitment to European Bosnia and Herzegovina. That is why we also need to recognise any positive step forward, such as the adoption of the reform agenda. This is proof that, despite all the obstacles, there is a capacity to thrive. Most people demand the same from the government. Bosnia and Herzegovina is a place in the European Union. Any real move on that path will have our full support.

As the world began to change irreversibly on 11 September 2001, the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 triggered a chain of events that radically changed relations in the Middle East. Netanyahu encourages conflicts to transform Israel itself, establishing dominance over the wider space. It accounts for the entire Palestinian people, not just Hamas terrorists. In parallel, the level of internal repression in Iran has strengthened after external intervention, bringing the regime to the brink. But can the European Union even come out of permanent deep concern about the situation in the Middle East because it has not been able to agree on common positions before? The European Union as a ‘soft power’ clearly fails to mediate in the ‘hard powers’ conflict. The European Union is considering available measures, including the possible suspension of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Union and Israel. The Middle East is at a critical juncture that requires more decisive action. Our role in achieving the JCPOA proves that the European Union, when united, can achieve serious global diplomatic successes.

As the world began to change irreversibly on 11 September 2001, the Hamas terrorist attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 triggered a chain of events that radically changed relations in the Middle East. Netanyahu encourages conflicts to transform Israel itself, establishing dominance over the wider space. It accounts for the entire Palestinian people, not just Hamas terrorists. In parallel, the level of internal repression in Iran has strengthened after external intervention, bringing the regime to the brink. But can the European Union even come out of permanent deep concern about the situation in the Middle East because it has not been able to agree on common positions before? The European Union as a ‘soft power’ clearly fails to mediate in the ‘hard powers’ conflict. The European Union is considering available measures, including the possible suspension of the Stabilisation and Association Agreement between the European Union and Israel. The Middle East is at a critical juncture that requires more decisive action. Our role in achieving the JCPOA proves that the European Union, when united, can achieve serious global diplomatic successes.

Until the rules of the functioning of the European Union are changed, there is no need to give up on the solutions we have on the table today. However, the topic of this debate is also the European Union in the future, and I think that we roughly divide ourselves here into those who would update the European Union, so adhere to the continuation of the enlargement policy, but there are also those who would nullify the European Union. Certainly, the future European Union must also take into account the legal achievements on which it is based, and this is, among other things, a policy of consensus, but many times in practice it has proven to be a bottleneck when urgent decisions need to be taken for the benefit of the European Union and its citizens.

The geopolitical situation in the world is a good argument in favour of the continuation of the enlargement policy. However, that does not mean deviating from the ‘Copenhagen criteria’, on the contrary - they must be implemented consistently in practice. The European Union should only support real, not fictitious, reforms and react immediately when the criteria are met. Although enlargement is once again a strategic priority for the European Union, it has dealt with this policy almost transactionally for a long time, guided by the erroneous belief that European money will solve all internal problems of candidate countries. Thus, we put on the list of strategically important projects those that are not supported by citizens or we recommend closing the chapter on public procurement immediately after the conclusion of the contract with a third country that is exempted from these rules. Insisting on the rule of law and European values, but with a coherent geopolitical orientation, must be the basis for the continuation of the enlargement policy. If the enlargement policy is implemented in this way, the internal reform of the European Union institutions should be neither an obstacle nor an alibi to delay the new enlargement of the European Union.

Madam President, High Representative, colleagues, the upcoming NATO summit is happening in much different circumstances than a year ago. Now, more than ever, we must show our commitment and responsibility for the future of this alliance. Within these commitments, we will pursue the new spending target for defence. However, defence is not only about percentages. No other global player currently faces such turmoil on almost all its borders like the European Union. The European Union needs to step up and join forces on a realistic approach. We cannot entrust our security every four years to swing voters in the United States, but establish some guidelines and initiatives to go along with these changing times. In this sense, the upcoming summit is crucial in pioneering an up‑to‑date and realistic EU security approach. I strongly believe we have to reiterate our commitment for international law and the rules‑based international system. That means unwavering support for Ukraine. Russian aggression against Ukraine must be an integrative and not divisive factor. The Russian Federation meddles not only in the European Union Member States, but also in our immediate neighbourhood – the Western Balkans. The NATO summit must address this issue too. In these difficult times, we also need to be focused on the NATO interest in the Arctic and the Baltics and ensure security and stability in these ever‑important regions. Therefore, this NATO summit has crucial importance primarily for us Europeans to define and strengthen our security in upcoming years. It's a task and responsibility our citizens are asking us to take up. Security, for sure, is a key to preserving life in a democracy.