European Parliament Advocates for Robust Foreign Policy and Defence Strategies
MEPs emphasize support for Ukraine, increased presence in the Middle East, and enhanced cooperation with global partners
The European Parliament convened to discuss key foreign policy and defence initiatives, adopting two significant reports that underline the urgency of responding to geopolitical challenges such as Russia's aggression in Ukraine, the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, and broader great power competition.
Following a vote of 378 in favor, 188 against, and 105 abstentions, the report on Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) articulated the need for the EU to escalate its support for Ukraine in order to ensure its strength and deter further Russian aggression, especially in light of potential ceasefire negotiations.
The Parliament voiced concerns that Russia's actions threaten the security architecture of Europe, particularly impacting the Eastern European neighborhood and the Western Balkans.
MEPs issued directives for EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas to devise a comprehensive strategy for the Middle East, advocating for increased EU engagement aimed at fostering lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The potential return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza was viewed positively, alongside support for the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
The reports further addressed the shifting nature of international relations, particularly with intensified efforts by countries like China, Russia, and Iran to destabilize the global order.
MEPs acknowledged the importance of enhanced cooperation with like-minded partners, particularly the United States, despite concerns about recent policy shifts that may undermine established partnerships.
They emphasized the need for EU member states to pursue bilateral diplomatic avenues with the US while maintaining a unified EU stance.
The Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) report, adopted by 399 votes in favor, 198 against, and 71 abstentions, expressed profound concern over any shift in the United States' approach to Russia’s war against Ukraine.
The MEPs condemned attempts to coerce Ukraine into surrendering under the pretext of achieving peace.
They stressed that any peace accord must respect Ukraine's sovereignty and be accompanied by substantial security guarantees to deter Russia from future aggression.
Collaborative efforts with NATO partners and a strong commitment to mutual defence were highlighted as essential to enhancing Europe's military capabilities.
MEPs reiterated the necessity for a cohesive European Defence Union that complements NATO’s operations, asserting that the EU must bolster its defence industry in these increasingly uncertain times.
In financial matters, Parliament urged the European Commission to increase common debt to secure the EU's capability to invest in vital areas such as security and defence amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Additionally, the European Parliament voted on the 2024 annual report regarding global human rights and democracy, revealing significant international concerns over the decline of democratic values and the rise of authoritarianism.
MEPs denounced the increase in human rights violations, political violence, censorship of independent media, and the undermining of civil society.
The report reaffirmed the EU's commitment to international legal institutions like the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, while urging timely response mechanisms against sanctions targeting these bodies.
A proactive stance was taken regarding women's rights, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the wellbeing of women and girls against discrimination and violence, particularly in conflict zones.
The Parliament’s report was adopted with 390 votes in favor, 116 against, and 126 abstentions.
In budgetary discussions, MEPs endorsed strategic priorities for the 2026 EU budget, focusing on resilience, preparedness, and enhanced defence capabilities amidst evolving security threats.
With 441 votes in favor, 173 against, and 70 abstentions, the guidelines called for significant investments in health, cybersecurity, climate transition, economic competitiveness, and migration policy.
Concerns about the repayment of the NextGenerationEU recovery plan were also addressed, with MEPs highlighting the necessity of unconditional support for Ukraine while cautioning against implications for EU funding.
MEPs asserted that the upcoming budget must prioritize stability amid significant global changes and climate challenges.
These resolutions and recommendations indicate a potent call for solidarity and decisive action from the EU as it navigates a complex geopolitical landscape.
Following a vote of 378 in favor, 188 against, and 105 abstentions, the report on Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP) articulated the need for the EU to escalate its support for Ukraine in order to ensure its strength and deter further Russian aggression, especially in light of potential ceasefire negotiations.
The Parliament voiced concerns that Russia's actions threaten the security architecture of Europe, particularly impacting the Eastern European neighborhood and the Western Balkans.
MEPs issued directives for EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas to devise a comprehensive strategy for the Middle East, advocating for increased EU engagement aimed at fostering lasting peace and security for both Israelis and Palestinians.
The potential return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza was viewed positively, alongside support for the Global Alliance for the Implementation of the Two-State Solution.
The reports further addressed the shifting nature of international relations, particularly with intensified efforts by countries like China, Russia, and Iran to destabilize the global order.
MEPs acknowledged the importance of enhanced cooperation with like-minded partners, particularly the United States, despite concerns about recent policy shifts that may undermine established partnerships.
They emphasized the need for EU member states to pursue bilateral diplomatic avenues with the US while maintaining a unified EU stance.
The Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP) report, adopted by 399 votes in favor, 198 against, and 71 abstentions, expressed profound concern over any shift in the United States' approach to Russia’s war against Ukraine.
The MEPs condemned attempts to coerce Ukraine into surrendering under the pretext of achieving peace.
They stressed that any peace accord must respect Ukraine's sovereignty and be accompanied by substantial security guarantees to deter Russia from future aggression.
Collaborative efforts with NATO partners and a strong commitment to mutual defence were highlighted as essential to enhancing Europe's military capabilities.
MEPs reiterated the necessity for a cohesive European Defence Union that complements NATO’s operations, asserting that the EU must bolster its defence industry in these increasingly uncertain times.
In financial matters, Parliament urged the European Commission to increase common debt to secure the EU's capability to invest in vital areas such as security and defence amidst rising geopolitical tensions.
Additionally, the European Parliament voted on the 2024 annual report regarding global human rights and democracy, revealing significant international concerns over the decline of democratic values and the rise of authoritarianism.
MEPs denounced the increase in human rights violations, political violence, censorship of independent media, and the undermining of civil society.
The report reaffirmed the EU's commitment to international legal institutions like the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court, while urging timely response mechanisms against sanctions targeting these bodies.
A proactive stance was taken regarding women's rights, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding the wellbeing of women and girls against discrimination and violence, particularly in conflict zones.
The Parliament’s report was adopted with 390 votes in favor, 116 against, and 126 abstentions.
In budgetary discussions, MEPs endorsed strategic priorities for the 2026 EU budget, focusing on resilience, preparedness, and enhanced defence capabilities amidst evolving security threats.
With 441 votes in favor, 173 against, and 70 abstentions, the guidelines called for significant investments in health, cybersecurity, climate transition, economic competitiveness, and migration policy.
Concerns about the repayment of the NextGenerationEU recovery plan were also addressed, with MEPs highlighting the necessity of unconditional support for Ukraine while cautioning against implications for EU funding.
MEPs asserted that the upcoming budget must prioritize stability amid significant global changes and climate challenges.
These resolutions and recommendations indicate a potent call for solidarity and decisive action from the EU as it navigates a complex geopolitical landscape.
