BRUSSELS (AP) — European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen issued a stark warning to EU lawmakers on Monday, cautioning them against falling prey to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s efforts to sow division across Europe. Speaking ahead of two no-confidence votes scheduled for this week, von der Leyen emphasized the need for unity to serve the interests of the bloc’s 450 million citizens. The censure motions, tabled by far-left and far-right factions in the European Parliament, target von der Leyen’s leadership. However, with centrist parties holding a majority, the motions are expected to be rejected, as a two-thirds majority is required for passage. The European Commission, which von der Leyen heads, plays a pivotal role in proposing EU laws, ensuring their enforcement, managing trade, and regulating competition across the 27 member states. In her address at the assembly in Strasbourg, France, von der Leyen underscored the urgency of focusing on delivering tangible benefits for Europeans, warning that adversaries like Russia are actively exploiting and inciting divisions. She accused Putin of having allies within Europe who propagate disinformation and create scapegoats to weaken the bloc’s cohesion. The Left group has criticized von der Leyen for approving detrimental trade deals and failing to address Israel’s alleged violations of international law in Gaza. Meanwhile, the nationalist Patriots for Europe have blamed her leadership for a surge in migration, claiming it threatens European identity and security. Despite these criticisms, von der Leyen comfortably survived a similar no-confidence vote in July, with centrist parties accusing fringe groups of using such motions for political gain. The votes, however, have intensified scrutiny of von der Leyen and her European People’s Party, which is accused of aligning with hard-right factions to advance its agenda.
EU chief von der Leyen faces more confidence votes this week. She’s almost certain to win again
