The head of the EC on the defense commissioner’s portfolio: “Citizens want more in the field of European defense”

She said the new portfolio would focus on strengthening Europe’s defense industrial base in light of Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“Citizens want more in Europe’s defense,” von der Leyen told reporters.

“They want us to invest more. They want us to invest better. They want us to invest in a European and smarter way,” added the head of the EC.

In June, the European Parliament elections will be held across the EU, and a few months later the new composition of the EC will be elected.

Ms von der Leyen is considered the favorite to lead the institution for another five years, with the support of many European governments.

In Brussels, she spoke alongside Manfred Weber, the leader of the centre-right European People’s Party, which is expected to formally nominate her as its candidate for EC chief at next month’s convention.

The push to boost Europe’s defense capabilities comes nearly two years following Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine and as the United States faces the prospect of Donald Trump’s return to the White House.

The Republican leader, who is likely to face incumbent President Joe Biden in the November election, has angered America’s European allies in NATO by suggesting that they will not defend those who default on their financial obligations.

It all added to calls for the EU to step up its defense efforts following Russia sparked Europe’s worst conflict since World War II.

Despite numerous measures to boost arms production in Europe, the continent is struggling to produce enough weapons to supply war-torn Ukraine and replenish its stockpiles.

The 27-nation bloc is unlikely to fulfill its promise to provide Ukraine with a million artillery shells by March.

At the time, Russia was able to increase its production, and it also receives large shipments of ammunition from North Korea.

Next month, Brussels is set to present a new plan aimed at increasing production in Europe and overall EU purchases.

European defense issues are currently being dealt with by the head of EU foreign policy, Josep Borrell, and the Commissioner responsible for the internal market, Thierry Breton.