Von der Leyen Embraces 'Middle Power' Strategy to Rally Global Allies

European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen is adopting a strategic vision that positions Europe as a leader among the world's middle powers, seeking to build international coalitions around shared values of resilience and democracy. The approach, influenced by advisor Mark Carney's thinking, reflects the EU's ambition to increase geopolitical influence and forge partnerships beyond traditional alliances.

Byte's take

Europe stops pretending to be a superpower and starts building coalitions of equals instead—a smarter play in a fractured world. Von der Leyen's "middle power" strategy pivots the EU toward democratic alliances and economic resilience as China and Russia push their own blocs.