Von der Leyen denounces that “state and non-state actors” are using migration, as in Ceuta, to “overwhelm the authorities and sow fear” in the European Union

European Council President António Costa addressed the European Union in Strasbourg on Wednesday, calling for a shift from reactive crisis management to proactive strategic planning. He emphasized that the upcoming EU budget represents a fundamental political choice regarding the bloc's future trajectory rather than a mere administrative exercise in fiscal allocation.

Costa argued that to effectively shape its own future, the European Union must secure the necessary strength, resources, and unity. He underscored that the upcoming budgetary decisions will serve as a definitive indicator of the EU's overall capacity to act on the international stage.