European Parliament elections: von der Leyen promises to build pro-Ukrainian majority

Ursula von der Leyen, the leading candidate for the presidency of the European Commission from the European People's Party, made the statement after the announcement of the preliminary results of the European Parliament elections, Ukrinform reports.

She mentioned that today is a good day for the European People's Party. They have won the European elections and, at this moment, they are the strongest party and a foundation for stability. She expressed her gratitude to the voters who recognized their leadership over the past five years.

Von der Leyen recalled that she had been actively campaigning in the past weeks. According to her, she has heard that citizens really appreciate the EU, have confidence and trust in it. 

The European leader said that these elections sent them two messages. The first is that there is a majority in the "center" for a strong Europe, which is critically important for stability, and this "center" has been preserved. However, it is also true that the extreme left and right gained support. Therefore, these results mean enormous responsibility for the parties in the "center." While they may have differences on various points, they all have an interest in stability and want to see a strong and effective Europe.

Von der Leyen noted that the European People's Party (EPP) will immediately start working with large political families with similar platforms, including the European Socialists and Democrats (S&D) and Renew Europe. The EPP political group looks forward to continuing constructive relations with these forces.

“I’ve been working hard to build a broad and effective majority of pro-European forces. My aim is to continue on this path with those who are pro-European, pro-Ukraine, pro-rule of law. And as of tomorrow, this work starts again,” she said.

Answering journalists' questions, the current President of the European Commission expressed confidence that she would be able to get support to continue her work in this position. Although, according to her, it will still require a lot of effort.

• On Sunday, June 9, elections to the European Parliament were held in 20 European countries. Preliminary results have been announced.