Von der Leyen: "Putin is predatory and doesn't change – Defense investments will quintuple"

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in joint statements with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on Sunday, affirmed that Europe stands by Poland as a frontline state.

Von der Leyen stated that the new seven-year EU budget proposes tripling funds for migration management and border protection, as well as a tenfold increase for military mobility. Overall, defense investments will quintuple.

She also reminded of the 800 billion euro investment plan until 2030 and the SAFE program for joint defense procurement worth 150 billion euros, of which Poland is the largest beneficiary. Additional funding is also foreseen for member states bordering Russia and Belarus.

"We must maintain the sense of urgency. Putin is predatory and doesn't change," said von der Leyen, announcing a roadmap for additional investments in EU defense.

Finally, she referred to security guarantees for Ukraine, emphasizing the importance of a strong Ukrainian army.

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