Metsola calls for long-term resilience during persisting energy crisis

European Parliament President Roberta Metsola urged EU leaders to move beyond short-term fixes and focus on long-term structural resilience in the face of persisting energy challenges caused by conflicts in the Middle East.

During an informal meeting with the European Council, Metsola called for significant investment into EU grids and infrastructure to secure the continent's supply and ensure strategic autonomy which has been under discussion for “decades.”

The president greeted the prolonged ceasefire in Iran.

She also welcomed the approval of a €90 billion loan for Ukraine and the implementation of the 20th package of sanctions, introducing new measures targeting Russian energy, trade, finance, and defense. Russia accused the sanctions of being “illegal” and demonstrating a “complete disregard” for international law and the United Nations Charter, warning of “a proper and timely response.”

Meanwhile, Metsola asserted that these measures provide the financial assistance and political momentum that the European Parliament has long advocated for.

Additionally, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulide, and Metsola signed a roadmap for the EU Single Market, which is designed to eliminate economic fragmentation and deliver a more streamlined, competitive European economy.

“This roadmap reflects what the European Parliament has been calling for,” Metsola said. “It strengthens our capacity to withstand shocks and it provides predictability to our citizens and businesses.”

“This is Europe responding to what it needs.”