EU citizens demand stronger, more unified leadership on security, defense, and global issues, backing President von der Leyen’s sovereignty push.

A Eurobarometer survey of over 2,600 EU citizens found strong support for more unified and assertive EU leadership amid security, economic, and climate challenges. Ninety percent want greater unity, 87% back a stronger diplomatic role, and 69% favor expanded security involvement in global crises. Defense is the top priority in 18 member states, with concerns over Russian hybrid threats, cyberwarfare, disinformation, and reliance on foreign defense supplies. Despite pessimism about the world’s future, EU citizens express more confidence in the bloc than in their own countries or personal futures, aligning with President von der Leyen’s push for greater sovereignty in defense and trade.