EU needs to defend its interests more forcefully on the world stage, MEPs say

According to MEPs, the European Union cannot be just a passive player in global politics - it must become a strong geopolitical actor that will defend its interests with greater vigour and unity. By approving the report on the Common Foreign and Security Policy, they therefore call on the Commission and the Member States to respond actively to Russia's aggression in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East and to move towards a return to so-called great power politics.

The European Union must increase its support for Ukraine and strengthen its defence strategy, MEPs agreed. They warn that Russian aggression threatens Europe's security and call for faster and more extensive aid to Kiev to prevent future attacks by Moscow. Any ceasefire, they say, must be accompanied by clear security guarantees for Ukraine.

Parliament also calls for closer cooperation between the EU and NATO and stresses the need to develop European defence capabilities. At the same time, it draws attention to the growing influence of China, Russia and Iran, which are seeking to weaken the international order. Criticism has also been levelled at the new US administration, which MEPs say is undermining traditional alliances.

Another geopolitical challenge is the Middle East, where the EU must strengthen its diplomatic role. MEPs support a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and ask EU diplomacy chief Kaja Kallas to present a strategy for the region.

Parliament also proposes that the EU be given the option of issuing joint debt to finance defence. The MEPs say joint European loans would ensure that there is enough money to protect citizens and support allies, especially Ukraine.