European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Germany’s new Chancellor Friedrich Merz held their first official meeting, addressing critical topics such as defense investments, the return of irregular migrants, competitiveness, energy security, innovation, and continued support for Ukraine.
Speaking at a joint press conference, von der Leyen emphasized that she and Merz agreed progress must be made before summer on issues including access to capital markets and strengthening Europe’s innovation landscape. Von der Leyen, herself a German politician, stressed that Germany remains a global industrial powerhouse with deep ties to European and international markets.
30-Day Ceasefire in Ukraine Deemed Crucial
On Ukraine, von der Leyen stated that she and Merz support the proposed 30-day ceasefire, suggested by U.S. President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and highlighted the importance of implementing it. She also noted the necessity of bolstering Ukraine’s military position and welcomed Merz’s efforts to significantly increase Germany’s defense budget.
“We also need more defense spending across Europe. I strongly support Friedrich’s initiative to expand Germany’s defense commitments,” she said.
EU to Allocate €3 Billion for Irregular Migration Measures
Turning to migration, von der Leyen announced that the EU will allocate an additional €3 billion to address irregular migration. She revealed that illegal arrivals had decreased by 30% this year due to successful partnerships with neighboring countries.
However, she pointed out that only 20% of migrants with rejected asylum applications are returned to their countries of origin. “In March, the Commission presented a proposal on returns. Now it’s time for member states and the European Parliament to act,” she stated.
Internal Border Controls: A Temporary but Legal Measure
Addressing criticisms regarding Germany’s border controls within the Schengen area, von der Leyen clarified that EU member states may implement such measures if they are time-bound and coordinated closely with the Commission. “As far as I understand, Germany is in communication with neighboring countries,” she added.
Von der Leyen Responds to Trump: “I Like Compliments”
Von der Leyen also commented on President Donald Trump’s recent praise, in which he referred to her as “a great leader.” Asked whether this signaled an upcoming visit to the White House, von der Leyen smiled and replied, “I like compliments.”
She went on to explain that she had good conversations with Trump, including at Pope Francis’ funeral, and would only visit the White House if a concrete EU–U.S. package is ready for discussion. “What matters to me is that we go there with something specific to negotiate,” she said.
Tariffs Still a Sticking Point in EU–U.S. Relations
Von der Leyen acknowledged that negotiations on U.S.-imposed tariffs are ongoing, aiming for a fair, balanced solution that benefits both sides of the Atlantic. “If talks fail, we are ready to act. We are currently consulting on a possible list of rebalancing measures – in other words, all options are on the table,” she warned.
Tensions between Brussels and Washington have simmered since Trump took office. Notably, von der Leyen was not invited to Trump’s inauguration on January 20, and multiple EU requests for meetings were reportedly declined. The first interaction between von der Leyen and Trump occurred at Pope Francis’ funeral on April 26, where the two leaders agreed to a future formal meeting.
Source: Bloomberght/ Prepared by: İlayda Gök