Speeches

Mr President, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, it is clear it's not just about the tariffs – it's about what kind of Europe we want to be. Right now, President Trump is simply trying to bully Europe. He says, 'Take this deal or pay the price'. And if we don't agree, of course, our exports could face huge tariffs. Up to now, it sounds like 200 % on pharmaceuticals, and that of course means jobs at risk, economic slowdown. But this is much bigger than just trade. When one leader uses threats and deadlines, it's not about partnership – it's pressure. Trump's approach is clear: tariffs first, negotiations second. And that's not how we build a future for Europe. We cannot give in. We cannot trade away our values for a quick fix where we don't know if there is even a standstill clause on that. We need a deal that helps people and protects Europe's future. And that means clean industry and not dirty shortcuts, fair supply chains with strong rights for workers everywhere, and digital rules that protect freedom and privacy. The message to Washington is simple: we seek cooperation and not capitulation. And Europe must show that it can be strong and fair at the same time. So let us show the world what we stand for, that we stand united as one Europe.

Mr President, dear colleagues, let me first express my deepest condolences to the families of the victims, and remember those who lost their lives. This disaster is a clear reminder that safety on our railways must always come first. And we need to be transparent about what really went wrong and open about what is being done to fix it, to prevent it from happening in future. People deserve to know how EU funds for transport are used and how safety is being improved. The EU has given significant funds for transport and infrastructure. And when public money does not lead to public safety, then political responsibility must follow. So let us make sure that strong, clear rules are in place and followed across every Member State. Because the goal is simple: safer journeys and renewed trust. We call on the European Commission to be fully transparent, showing what was done before the disaster and what is being done now to protect lives, improve railway safety and ensure EU funds truly benefit the public.

Mr President, dear colleagues, Moldova has clearly shown what determination looks like. In the shadow of war, under constant pressure from Russian disinformation, constant hybrid threats, it made a bold choice for democracy, for reforms, and most importantly, for European future. And today, Moldova launches accession talks with the EU; it's a move forward on justice reform, climate ambition – not because it was easy, but because it was the right thing to do. The road ahead will certainly present new challenges: with elections this September, Moldova will be tested again. Moldova has successfully passed through the two previous elections, but it's a bit like a boxing match: you win two rounds, but if you are knocked out in the third one, you lose. Therefore, it's our duty to help Moldova, because Moldova's future is with us in a free, democratic European home. And this is the voice of the Moldovan people.

Madam President, dear colleagues, every day Russia's war against Ukraine brings new pain. Civilians are killed in their homes, children lose their parents. Russian bombs hit schools, hospitals and energy plants. Cities are left in darkness and people continue to live in fear. And the suffering does not end at the frontline. Thousands of civilians and prisoners of war are held illegally by Russian forces. Many of them face torture, abuse, rape and even execution, including children. At least 75 of those cases are documented, and this is not a single event. This is a systemic terror against Ukrainian people. And these are not just numbers. These are lives. So every attack, every act of cruelty is a crime against humanity. But words are not enough. We must act. We must deliver aid, secure the immediate release of all detainees, support Ukraine's defence and demand accountability. The Council must tighten sanctions and close every loophole that fuels Russia's war machine. The world cannot be silent. The human cost is too high. And it's time to bring justice to Ukraine.

Madam President, dear colleagues, every day Russia's war against Ukraine brings new pain. Civilians are killed in their homes, children lose their parents. Russian bombs hit schools, hospitals and energy plants. Cities are left in darkness and people continue to live in fear. And the suffering does not end at the frontline. Thousands of civilians and prisoners of war are held illegally by Russian forces. Many of them face torture, abuse, rape and even execution, including children. At least 75 of those cases are documented, and this is not a single event. This is a systemic terror against Ukrainian people. And these are not just numbers. These are lives. So every attack, every act of cruelty is a crime against humanity. But words are not enough. We must act. We must deliver aid, secure the immediate release of all detainees, support Ukraine's defence and demand accountability. The Council must tighten sanctions and close every loophole that fuels Russia's war machine. The world cannot be silent. The human cost is too high. And it's time to bring justice to Ukraine.

Mr President, dear colleagues, let me speak plainly: every single day that we delay the phase‑out of Russian energy we are wiring billions straight into the war chest of Putin's aggression against Ukraine. Now the Commission's plan is definitely a significant step in the right direction. But let's be clear: a step is not enough – not when the challenge demands a significant leap. The Nord Stream chapter must be closed and closed for good. Because Nord Stream was never just about gas; it was a geopolitical weapon. It bypassed Ukraine and Poland. It handed the Kremlin a tool to divide Europe, to distort competition, to threaten over 100 million people from the Baltics to the Balkans. Let's be honest, it weakened our solidarity when we needed it most. So, no, we cannot afford another strategic blunder, and we cannot afford to trade one dependency for another. So swapping Russian gas for fossil fuels or nuclear from other authoritarian regimes, that's not a plan; that's another trap. True energy sovereignty means renewables, modern grids. The time for half‑measures is over.

Mr President, Minister, Commissioner, dear colleagues, three years ago the world watched as Ukraine stood alone against a storm of aggression, and today Ukraine stands not alone, but with the full force of European solidarity. The EU's support for a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace in Ukraine is not a slogan: it's a lifeline and a promise. The European Parliament has welcomed a proposed possible 30‑day ceasefire, but nobody is fooled by Putin's empty promises. He talks peace while at the same time his troops keep shelling Ukrainian cities and killing civilians. Using ceasefire offers as a smokescreen to regroup and push his agenda. Let us be clear: peace without justice is surrender, and surrender is not peace. The EU must reject any so-called peace that rewards aggression or forces Ukraine to trade its freedom for silence. We demand a full withdrawal of Russian forces, the return of abducted children and accountability for war crimes, because only justice can build the foundation for lasting peace. Our vision is bold: we support Ukraine's peace formula, which calls for the restoration of territorial integrity and robust security guarantees. We are mobilising unprecedented financial, humanitarian and military assistance, and we will use every tool – from sanctions to reconstruction funds – to ensure Ukraine emerges not as a survivor, but as a future member of the European family. And this is not just Ukraine's fight: it's a battle for the security of Europe and the rules‑based world. Recent shifts in US policy underscore the EU's increased responsibility. Our message is simple: there is no lasting peace without Ukraine and no lasting peace without the EU at the table.

Mr President, dear Minister, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, the recent US tariffs don't just hit our exports, they strike at the heart of what should be a fair and trusted partnership. Over EUR 500 billion-worth of EU goods could be affected. Behind that figure, there are real people – our workers, our businesses and the values that we stand for – and the only correct response is with unity, with calm and with purpose. Yes, we have introduced proportionate countermeasures, but we are also keeping the door wide open for a dialogue, for an honest dialogue, offering to boost imports of US goods by EUR 50 billion to help restore balance. Still, this is much more than just a dispute. It's about Europe shaping its own path – building stronger, more diverse partnerships and standing up for a global trade system based on rules and mutual respect. Across Europe, people also reacted. People are frustrated. Boycotts and anti-American sentiment are rising. But our message is clear. We want solutions, not a trade war. If the US is ready to negotiate, so are we. If not, Europe will stand tall, united, and turn this challenge into an opportunity.

Mr President, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, in times of rising disinformation and geopolitical tensions, independent media is not just important, it is essential. Free and fearless journalism is one of the strongest foundations of a healthy democracy. It gives voice to the voiceless, holds power to account, and ensures that citizens have access to truth. That is why the recent situation faced by Radio Free Europe (RFE) is so alarming. Earlier this month, the Trump Administration abruptly moved to cut RFE's funding and dismantle the agency that oversees its operations. And while this happened outside the EU, its message echoes loudly here. When a respected outlet, like RFE, can be threatened so easily, we must ask ourselves, who is next? And what are we doing to protect the space for independent journalism within and beyond our borders? We must ensure that RFE and other essential outlets have access to long-term, stable funding, including from the European Union. This is not just about filling a gap, but about preparing for a future where transatlantic support for independent media can no longer be taken for granted. Let's support those who risk everything to report the truth, not only with words, but with action, funding and solidarity. Because defending the media is, first of all, defending democracy.

Madam President, dear President of the Council, dear Commissioner, let me begin by welcoming the fact that 26 Member States have firmly reiterated their commitment to providing Ukraine with regular and predictable support. Our backing for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity within its internationally recognised borders remains steadfast. Let's not make a mistake. We do want peace, but in these circumstances, peace needs to be protected. Ukraine must be equipped to defend itself militarily, economically, politically. We will continue working with our allies to provide the comprehensive support it needs. The recent talks that were held in Saudi Arabia showed that Ukraine is ready to negotiate. Ukraine is ready to take steps to de-escalate. But peace requires much more than just proposals – it demands political will, and so far, Russia has shown zero of that. The return of unlawfully deported Ukrainian children, the release of civilians and the exchange of prisoners of war. They are not optional. They are humanitarian imperatives. They could be the first steps to show willingness to come closer. We must be prepared to further increase pressure on Russia – with stronger sanctions, with tighter enforcement – until it ends its aggression. Peace can be achieved not with the surrender of Ukraine; peace can be achieved when Russia withdraws its troops.

Mr President, Commissioner, dear colleagues, it's unacceptable that despite some efforts since 2022, the EU continues to finance Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine through the purchases of Russian fossil fuels. And the stark reality is that some EU countries remain complicit in funding the very conflict we claim to oppose. Just today, this House adopted two important resolutions, supporting Ukraine and regarding the defence white paper. So our continued reliance on Russian energy severely undermines our security. It is unbelievable that EU spending on Russian fossil fuels exceeded its financial aid to Ukraine in 2024. On 1 January, Ukraine took a courageous step by cutting off Russian gas transit. Yet some countries still treat Russian gas as just another commodity. It's not; it's a weapon that is used to divide and weaken us. In 2025, the EU is still importing a significant amount of Russian pipeline gas and LNG, and this must end immediately, not by 2027. Commissioner, you outlined it correctly. The phase-out of Russian gas is essential for our autonomy and defence, and that can be achieved by prioritising clean energy, by rapidly scaling up renewables and energy efficiency: this can reduce Russian gas imports quickly. Let us seize this moment to transform our energy landscape and stand firmly against Russian aggression.

Mr President, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, the upcoming white paper on the future of European defence is a crucial step. But the expectation is that it's going to be finally more than just a paper. It must be a real catalyst for action. We cannot afford to continue business as usual. The security of our citizens and the integrity of our borders depend on our ability to act swiftly and decisively. We must accelerate our efforts to enhance interoperability among Member States' armed forces. This is not just about spending more on defence; it's about ensuring that our forces can work seamlessly together. We need also to integrate our defence industries and streamline our procurement processes to avoid duplication and inefficiencies. We also should move beyond intergovernmental agreements and build a genuine European Defence Union. Our support for Ukraine is not just a moral imperative. It's a strategic necessity. We must provide more arms and ammunition, expand training operations and integrate Ukraine's defence industry into our own. In doing this, we must remember that our ultimate goal is peace. We are strengthening our defence to avoid war, protect our values and ensure that the EU remains a beacon of stability in the world.

Madam President, dear colleagues, the EU cannot afford to fall behind in AI development. Imagine a world where AI-powered medical diagnostics can detect diseases years before symptoms appear, potentially saving millions of lives. And this is not science fiction, it's actually happening now. Yet with the recent US restriction on AI chip export, we risk losing access to the very tools needed to make this breakthrough a reality across Europe. So we must act decisively. First of all, we need to mitigate impacts on Member States facing export caps, ensuring solidarity across the EU – and here I count especially on the Polish Presidency, because Poland, just like Lithuania, found itself on the other side of the Iron Curtain. Secondly, we have to accelerate domestic AI chip production. The recently announced EUR 150 billion investment in European AI over the next five years is a step in the right direction. Finally, we must also create a unified EU export control regime to prevent third country actors from dividing us and deliberately targeting our single market.

Madam President, dear colleagues, the United States imposed tariffs on EU steel and aluminium. This action is not only unjustified, but it's also deeply concerning for the future of the transatlantic cooperation. Let me be clear: we do not desire this outcome. Imposing tariffs between allies is counterproductive and frankly absurd. Nevertheless, the EU has to respond firmly. Even so, trade wars weaken our shared economic strength and global influence. That said, tariffs and targeted economic measures can be important tools when dealing with regimes that threaten global security and stability, such as Russia and Belarus. In such cases, targeted action is not just justified, it is crucial. The Commission's proposal to impose tariffs on Russian and Belarusian agricultural products and fertilisers is a step in the right direction, helping to reduce dependencies, strengthen domestic production and diversify our supply chains. We must fully utilise this tool and remain united in upholding a rules-based international order.

Mr President, dear colleagues, today we confront a critical issue at the core of the EU's commitment to Ukraine, global security and economic stability. The shadow fleet is fuelling Russia's oil trade and, of course, the Russian oil chest. While the recent oversight and monitoring efforts are commendable, they are sort of like painting over rust – a temporary fix that, at the end of the day, fails to address the root cause. The reality is clear: Russian oil finds its buyers, including here in Europe. This revenue funds the war in Ukraine and funds destabilisation in Europe too. So to address this, I propose a five-step action plan. First of all, the G7 oil price cap needs to go down even further to USD 30 per barrel. Secondly, expanding sanctions to target shadow fleet vessels and their enablers. Thirdly, enhancing EU maritime surveillance. We need to close loopholes allowing Russian oil imports, such as in Bulgaria. And finally, establishing an EU task force to improve intelligence sharing and the enforcement of sanctions. So I call for action now, not to wait for further sabotage in the Baltic Sea. We have a unique moment with the Polish Presidency of the EU, but also with the Commission, and I call to ensure unity in this matter and to take measures as soon as possible.

Madam President, dear colleagues, the Kremlin is waging a war not only on Ukrainian soil, but also on the very fabric of reality itself. As a Lithuanian, I know what it means to stand on the front line of history. We endured Soviet occupation, where lies rewrote textbooks, dissent was silence and the truth was treated as a threat. We have seen how disinformation divides families, erodes trust and weakens nations. Today's Russian disinformation machine is more precise, more powerful and even more dangerous. From spreading false de-nazification narrative to exploiting social media platforms like TikTok, the Kremlin floods our societies with manipulative stories, seeking to divide Europe and discredit Ukraine. We need stricter transparency for political advertising, and we must hold platforms accountable when profit-driven algorithms amplify hatred and lies over truth. We must fight for a world where fact, not fiction, shapes our shared reality. The future of Ukraine, the stability of Europe and the health of our global democracy depend on it.

Madam President, dear colleagues, the recent incidents involving undersea communication cables in the Baltic Sea have raised alarm bells across Europe. The possibility of sabotage is now at the centre of discussions, which reflects the tense geopolitical climate that we are living in. The fact that two fibre optic cables were affected simultaneously has only fuelled suspicions. But one thing is clear: the situation underscores the vulnerability of undersea infrastructure. The civilian vessels might be used for strategic disruptions without direct military engagement. So, that is why it is becoming urgent to better address these challenges at EU level and we need a fully coordinated approach also with NATO. This should include enhancing intelligence sharing among Member States, investing in robust cybersecurity measures, increased surveillance, and conduct joint exercises to improve readiness. The EU must act swiftly and decisively to protect its critical infrastructure, rather than waiting for another accident to occur.

Madam President, dear colleagues, first it was Crimea, then it was Luhansk and Donetsk, and now for three years, full‑scale invasion of Ukraine. And yet, we still have Putin proxies here calling to force Ukraine into ceasefire. Call Russia into ceasefire. Force Russian imperialism into ceasefire. Now, with Iran, North Korea supporting Russia even with the troops on the ground, there is a clear formation of an axis of evil. And when you ask a question – 'What is the logical end?' – I have an answer for you. The logical end is to destroy institutions like this, to destroy democracy, to destroy human rights, dignity, everything what we have been fighting for, everything what this world has built after the Second World War. This is the aim of Putin, and here he is not going to stop in Kyiv, in Vilnius. The Iskanders that are in Kaliningrad – they aimed at Berlin. Do not forget that.

Madam President, dear colleagues, dear President Niinistö, first of all, of course, thank you for this report. A timely call to redefine how we approach crisis preparedness. With global tensions on the rise, Europe can no longer rely on old assumptions about security guarantees. While NATO remains our cornerstone, Europe needs to take on more responsibility and your report captures this urgency, pointing out that the EU must move beyond ad hoc solutions and fragmented defence strategies. We hope with the new Commissioner appointed for defence, EU countries must better use their funds. EU countries spend roughly EUR 240 billion each year on defence, but much of this is duplicated among Member States. So that is why joint procurement across the EU is essential. I also welcome the proposal for a single operational EU crisis management centre. This would be an essential step to unify our efforts, especially as we face increasingly sophisticated hybrid threats. This is not just about efficiency, it's about cementing our global credibility and influence.

Madam President, Commissioner, colleagues, the fires that have been ravaging the Amazon once again are not just an environmental crisis, they are a true planetary emergency. This summer alone, the Amazon fires have released an estimated 31.5 million tonnes of CO2, a figure close to the total amount of Norway. These blazes – primarily man-made and driven by deforestation for agriculture – are aggravating global warming, pushing the Amazon ecosystems closer to the irreversible tipping point and they are also devastating for local communities. Europe is a major consumer of products linked to deforestation. First of all: beef, soil, palm oil. They all have the potential to drive change by demanding a more sustainable supply chain. European policies, first of all the Deforestation Regulation, can play a pivotal role in stopping this devastation and I truly hope that one year from now, this regulation will be finally and fully applied.

Mr President, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, Moldova is at a historic crossroads, choosing between embracing democratic values and European integration, or remaining under the influence of external interference and restrictive governance. With the presidential elections and a referendum on EU integration approaching, we must recognise the gravity of the moment. Moldova is not just another country under pressure; it is a battleground for the values that we hold dear: freedom, democracy and the right of self-determination. Russia is relentlessly attempting to undermine Moldova's sovereignty through cyberattacks, disinformation campaigns and funding pro-Russian groups. They have channelled over EUR 100 million to generate chaos and doubt. And that is why the European Union and international community must intensify their support for Moldova, combating disinformation and amplifying the voice of Moldovan civil society. In addition, we must work hand in hand with Moldova on fulfilling all accession requirements so that the country can join the EU as swiftly as possible, because this is what the people of Moldova deserve. If we fail Moldova now, we send a dangerous signal to those who want to see a fractured Europe.

Madam President, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, the European automotive industry is at a defining moment, as some manufacturers are warning of potential plant closures and job losses due to unfair competition and high production costs, and there are also calls to roll back CO2 regulations. But stepping back on our climate goals is not the solution. We hear the concerns of workers, and we stand by them in the effort to protect jobs and secure a sustainable future for Europe. So instead, we must use this challenge as a catalyst to lower energy costs and foster innovation. The recent decision to impose tariffs on electric vehicles from China is a positive step in protecting our industry from unfair competition. However, we also need a comprehensive green industrial action plan for the automotive industry, covering all stages of the value chain. It is crucial to invest more in Europe's own electric vehicle production, reinforcing our battery supply chains and accelerating the development of recharging and refuelling infrastructure. Rather than loosening CO2 limits, we should focus on creating sustainable long-term jobs by supporting electric vehicles, exploring alternative fuels like hydrogen, and implementing retraining programmes for workers. Europe cannot only maintain jobs but must lead the transition to clean technology.

Mr President, dear Commissioner, dear colleagues, we have all witnessed the devastating floods across Central and Eastern Europe, particularly in the Czech Republic and Poland, as well as the severe forest fires in Portugal. These are clear signs of the climate instability that is no longer distant; it's already here affecting us now. Climate change is intensifying. Droughts, extreme weather events and floods are not only devastating to ecosystems, but also endanger the livelihoods of our farmers and entire communities in the European Union. Preparing for those challenges means investing better in land and water management, and focusing on more sustainable and climate‑resilient farming practices. At the same time, it's also crucial to effectively implement Union disaster resilience goals, promoting stronger cooperation and coordination among Member States to improve risk prevention and enhance civil protection.

Mr President, soon it will be 1000 days. This very November, we shall mark 1000 days of rape, looting and murder, deliberate bombings of children's hospitals and maternity wards, and cynical breaking of all possible international agreements and charters. All that is called Russian imperialism. All that taking place on European soil, and how exactly we will greet the millions of victims with this terrible mark upon us? Will we once again say that we are together until the end? Yet we have not defined anywhere what the end supposed to entail. How is that? That we still can tell with certainty what support Ukrainians can expect and for how long? How still that can be. This simple answer is it cannot. For the term 'European values' to still mean anything, this must be changed. So therefore, I call on all of us to start this mandate by carrying a very concrete task: ensure a steady and predictable military and financial support streams for Ukraine, for as long as the war continues, with the very clear and only goal of winning the war.

– Madam President, I promise I’ll be short. But I have to read it. President, honourable Members, the Commission will continue supporting the implementation of the Regulation 2017/745 on Medical Devices and Regulation 2017/746 on in vitro diagnostic medical devices, with a view to reaching the objectives set by the co-legislators at the time of their adoption. At the same time, recognising that challenges have been encountered in the implementation of this regulation, the Commission will undertake a targeted evaluation of these two regulations. In particular, the Commission will evaluate the structural challenges related to the implementation of the two regulations as a first step towards identifying sustainable solutions for the future. The Commission remains fully committed to a legislative framework for medical devices that is sustainable and efficient, that fully safeguards patient safety and at the same time fosters the innovation, capacity and competitiveness of the medical device system in the EU.