Munich Security Conference 2026: Ursula von der Leyen Advocates for a Sovereign European Defense Strategy

Today, February 14, 2026, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen delivered a pivotal keynote address at the Munich Security Conference. This high-level gathering, held from February 13 to 15, serves as a cornerstone for international security dialogue. Her speech today focused on the urgent need for Europe to redefine its role in a rapidly changing global order.

A central theme of her address was the revitalization of the European Union's mutual defense clause. Von der Leyen specifically called for the activation of Article 42.7 of the Lisbon Treaty, emphasizing the principle of "one for all, all for one." She argued that this commitment is not a mere suggestion but a fundamental treaty obligation that must be realized to ensure collective security.

The President described the current geopolitical climate as Europe’s "moment of independence." She stressed that the continent must take greater ownership of its security destiny. By strengthening its own capabilities, von der Leyen believes Europe will simultaneously bolster the transatlantic alliance and provide more robust support to NATO.

Reflecting on the lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine, von der Leyen noted that industrial capacity is the bedrock of effective deterrence. She pointed out that the ability to save lives and maintain sovereignty is directly linked to a nation's manufacturing strength. Europe, she suggested, must adopt the same level of resolve and proactive force utilization demonstrated by the Ukrainian people.

To achieve this, she proposed a radical shift in how the continent manages its resources. Von der Leyen called for the removal of barriers between the civilian and defense sectors. By fostering the growth of dual-use industries, Europe can leverage technological innovations for both economic prosperity and national protection.

The financial commitment to this new strategy is already evident in the data. Von der Leyen highlighted that EU defense spending has increased by nearly 80% compared to levels seen before the war. This trajectory suggests a significant shift in global military investment, with projections indicating that Europe could surpass the United States in defense expenditures by 2028.

Beyond her solo address, the President participated in a strategic discussion with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Their conversation centered on the effective application of power within a global landscape characterized by disorder. This meeting was particularly symbolic, occurring exactly ten years after the Brexit transition began.

The dialogue between von der Leyen and Starmer signaled a deepening partnership between the EU and the United Kingdom. They explored avenues for closer cooperation in security, economic stability, and the safeguarding of democratic values. This collaboration represents a unified European front against external pressures and systemic instability.

The European Commission President also utilized her digital platform to amplify these messages. On her official X account, @vonderleyen, she shared several updates throughout the day. These posts emphasized the necessity of being "collectively ready" and the importance of activating mutual defense protocols among member states.

Her social media presence further underscored the renewed bond with the United Kingdom as a key security partner. As the Munich Security Conference 2026 continues through its final day, von der Leyen’s vision for a stronger, more autonomous, and industrially capable Europe remains the primary focus of international observers.