On 13 April 2026, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, presented the read-out of the von der Leyen Commission’s weekly meeting on the impact of the situation in the Middle East on the European Union at a press conference held in Brussels, Belgium. 

Ursula von der Leyen stated that the Commission had held an orientation debate on the economic repercussions of the crisis in the Middle East, noting its significant impact on EU energy costs and security. She also drew attention to the fragile ceasefire, stalled negotiations, and risks associated with Iran, Lebanon, and the Strait of Hormuz. She also indicated that the cost of importing fossil fuels had risen sharply, prompting discussions about coordinated EU responses, targeted support measures, and reducing demand. She also outlined forthcoming structural reforms, including EU Emission Trading System (ETS) adjustments, grid investments, and electrification strategies, and reaffirmed the need to accelerate the transition towards renewables and nuclear energy in order to enhance resilience and reduce dependency. 

This video shows the complete press conference, including a question and answer session.