President von der Leyen’s 2025 State of the Union speech called for a “new Europe” built on unity, independence, and resilience – urging the EU to take charge of its own defence, technology, energy, and democratic future while standing firmly with Ukraine against Russian aggression. She also outlined ambitious plans for economic competitiveness, social justice, climate resilience, and global leadership, stressing that Europe must protect its freedoms and democracy by acting together in an uncertain world.