At the 62nd Munich Security Conference, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, urged for a new European security doctrine to enhance the continent's independence. Highlighting the ongoing war in Ukraine, she stated that Europe’s way of life is being challenged across various areas, thus reinforcing the need for the EU to be self-reliant. As geopolitical tensions rise, the call for a coordinated and robust European defense strategy is becoming increasingly critical.

In her address, von der Leyen articulated the importance of Europe not only in terms of military capability but also in fostering independence in vital sectors influenced by external pressures. Her remarks mirror a growing sentiment among European leaders that the continent should not solely rely on traditional allies, particularly the United States, for its security. This calls for an urgent reassessment of European defense policies and capabilities.

The live blog covering the conference also reports contributions from other key leaders, including U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and French President Emmanuel Macron, who defended Europe's role amidst criticism. With developments in this area closely monitored, the potential implications of Europe's newfound security strategies on both regional and international politics will be significant.