The German Commission President strikes a serious tone directly in her annual speech to the EU Parliament.
Europe is drawn into a struggle, a struggle for a continent that is whole and at peace, for our values and our democracies, says von der Leyen.
Among the concrete news in the speech are fresh sharp proposals regarding Israel's actions in Gaza.
”Must do more”
What has happened in Gaza has shaken the world's conscience. Europe must do more, urges von der Leyen.
Therefore, the Commission is now formally proposing that the EU's trade agreement with Israel be paused and that sanctions be imposed on extremist Israeli ministers and settlers.
However, for this to become a reality, it is required that the EU's member states also say yes – which is far from given.
I know that this will be too much for some and too little for others, notes von der Leyen.
The message is still greeted with warm applause, not least from the large number from the left, social democrats, and the greens who dressed in red before the speech, to show their solidarity with Gaza.
Support to Poland
Initially, the speech is otherwise much about Ukraine and the country's sacrifices.
The EU chief promises continued support, more sanctions against Russia, and also "full solidarity" with Poland after the Russian drone violation of the country's airspace.
Ursula von der Leyen also focuses on the need for internal unity in the EU.
–The central issue today is simple: are we brave enough to fight, do we have the unity and the political will and ability to compromise? Or do we just want to fight internally and be paralyzed by our differences? That's what we all have to ask ourselves, says von der Leyen.
Electric cars and the internet
The EU chief also strikes another blow for electric cars - to the disappointment of those who hope for a change when it comes to the upcoming ban on new petrol cars in the EU from 2035.
–The future is electric. And the cars of the future must be made here in Europe, says von der Leyen.
She also warns of measures to restrict social media for young people – even if it's not yet about concrete stop proposals.
–Just as we once told our children that they were not allowed to smoke, drink, or watch adult films until a certain age, so I think we must consider the same for social media, says von der Leyen.
