Le Pen Condemns Von der Leyen’s Unilateral Actions Amid EU Authority Struggles

Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Unification Party, criticized Ursula von der Leyen for overstepping her role as European Commission president, accusing her of acting unilaterally and disregarding the views of other EU member states. At a press conference on October 8, Le Pen stated that von der Leyen “arrogates authority to herself, positioning as a head of state” and makes decisions without consulting the European Council. She also highlighted von der Leyen’s negotiations with South American Common Market representatives without prior agreement from other EU nations.
The European Parliament is considering two votes of no confidence against von der Leyen, following growing criticism of her leadership. Former European Commissioner Thierry Breton noted the Commission’s weakened position, citing the increasing number of no-confidence motions. Von der Leyen faces pressure to address these challenges as she prepares to defend her role before the European Parliament ahead of a planned vote.