On 18 December 2024, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Maroš Šefčovič, European Commissioner for Trade and Economic Security, and European Commissioner for Interinstitutional Relations and Transparency, participated in the Plenary Session of the European Parliament in Strasbourg, France. During her speech, Ursula von der Leyen expressed solidarity with Mayotte after a recent tragedy and highlighted the EU's readiness to coordinate emergency aid. She also focused on Syria, deeming Assad's fall a liberation but emphasized the need for a credible political transition to ensure national unity and protection of minorities. The EU is intensifying engagement in Syria, launching a humanitarian air bridge and increasing aid. Ursula Von der Leyen called for revisiting sectoral sanctions to aid reconstruction, stressing that refugees’ return must be voluntary and safe. On Ukraine, she underscored the strategic importance of supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, highlighting economic and military assistance, the impact of EU sanctions on Russia, and the importance of Ukraine's progress towards EU membership. She reiterated the EU's commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and the broader implications for European security.

In his speech, Maroš Šefčovič emphasized the EU's critical role in supporting Ukraine amidst challenging winter conditions, highlighting the need for continued military, energy, and economic assistance. He acknowledged the importance of a political transition in Syria, aligning with Ursula von der Leyen's earlier points on EU humanitarian efforts and reconstruction focus. Maroš Šefčovič also addressed concerns regarding the EU-Mercosur partnership, affirming respect for European farmers and emphasizing trade agreements' role in consolidating Europe's agri-food position. He reassured that EU food standards remain uncompromised, particularly concerning antibiotic use in meat. Finally, Maroš Šefčovič urged fact-based discussions on trade agreements, advocating for opportunities that enhance EU competitiveness and job creation while maintaining high standards.

This video shows the opening statement by Ursula von der Leyen.