European leaders shared a common message in their end of year message this year on European security and defence.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that 2026 was to be decisive year for Germany and Europe and called for more European strength after highlighting that Europe’s security partnership with the Untied States is changing. He stated that Germany is not a pawn of global powers as he seeks to reform Germany to pull it out of its economic crisis. The German Chancellor also stated that reforms were needed in the social contribution system due to the ever growing disparity between the numbers of people from the baby-boomer generation and young people.
Finnish President Alexander Stubb also highlighted security issues and the changing relationship with the US. Polish Prime Minister Donald tusk delivered a similar message and called for the support to Ukraine to continue.
European Parliament President Roberta Metsola also highlighted the security aspect, renewing Europe’s calls to ensure its own security and defence. She also stated that the EU will increasingly be addressing social concerns including the right to affordable housing.
French President Macron started by saying that France will continue supporting farmers in their challenges. He warned that age of empires is back and that the international order is being challenged. Starting from January 6th, European nations will be making security commitments to Ukraine he added. The French President also said that he will ensure that there is no foreign interference in the French Presidential elections.
President Zelensky said that he has agreed with up to 90% of the current draft peace agreement but reiterated that Ukraine won’t be giving up the Donbas. The Ukrainian President added that Ukraine is the only shield that separates Europe’s comfortable way of life from the Russian world.
On the other hand, Xi Jinping made his regular and annual reminder that China will be invading Taiwan. Vladimir Putin said that he believes in the victory of his army in Ukraine while he addressed his soldiers directly.
President Donald Trump did not deliver an end-of-year message. His latest public statement consisted of a rant directed at the renowned actor George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, an renowned international human rights lawyer, after they obtained French citizenship.
Newsroom
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