Strasbourg stage set for von der Leyen’s big moment

Strasbourg is preparing for von der Leyen's big moment, where she will unveil her final initiatives before stepping down. Three key factors will shape her speech: climate change, artificial intelligence, and industrial competitiveness, all intertwined with European-China relations. Climate change will require a delicate balance between addressing natural disasters and staying true to the Green Deal's mitigation goals.

AI technology must be navigated, with risks like job losses and cybersecurity balanced against potential benefits. The economy will see references to reducing energy dependence and boosting clean tech, especially as Iran's war drives up energy prices. China's trade talks loom, with von der Leyen likely sending a strong signal if negotiations collapse.

Ukraine's winter survival hangs in the balance, with strong condemnation expected for Russia's worsening aggression. Sanctions against Moscow will likely focus on enforcement rather than new packages. Von der Leyen also plans to restrict under-15's access to social media, with a potential preview of a proposal coming later. Canada's arrival in Strasbourg may overshadow her, but she will still address bringing Canada closer to the EU.

The migration pact's implementation will focus on recent asylum application drops and boosting crisis management capacity. Von der Leyen's centrist coalition faces challenges after the Ceuta crisis, and any mention of return hubs financed by EU money is unlikely. Finally, NATO's vigilance and readiness following a drone incident in Lithuania will carry significance beyond Vilnius, highlighting the alliance's resolve in the face of Russian aggression.