Addressing EU leaders at the European Council, European Parliament President Roberta Metsola declared that “Parliament will deliver — making things better, simpler and easier.” Metsola opened by welcoming the adoption of the EU’s 19th package of sanctions against Russia but acknowledged that “for a huge section of the European Parliament, this compromise simply did not go far enough.” She stressed that despite differences, “majorities are always strongest from the centre out,” affirming that Parliament remains determined to act decisively.
Metsola outlined key priorities, including progress on the Common Agricultural Policy, the Multiannual Financial Framework, and affordable housing. She noted that for the first time, Parliament established a “Special Committee on Affordable Housing,” underscoring that “we must deliver” on citizens’ concerns.
Defence and Ukraine
Turning to defence, Metsola confirmed that the European Defence Industry Programme has been agreed and funded, with a final vote imminent. “Everything hinges on its implementation,” she said, highlighting the link between European defence and Ukraine’s resilience. She reaffirmed support for Kyiv’s “peace through strength,” stressing that “we must phase out Russian gas and energy” and make “better use of Russian frozen assets.”
Metsola condemned a Russian strike on a kindergarten in Kharkiv as “horror… with little respect for innocent life,” adding that “peace is possible — and Europe has a role to play.”
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