European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen called Europe’s earlier move away from nuclear power a “strategic mistake,” as rising global energy tensions renewed concerns about the European Union’s long-term energy security.
Speaking at a nuclear summit in Paris, von der Leyen argued that abandoning atomic energy had weakened Europe’s ability to rely on stable, low-emission power sources. Before adding that the EU would support investments in “innovative nuclear technologies, she declared
It was a strategic mistake for Europe to turn its back on a reliable, affordable source of low-emission power.
The remarks come as global energy markets face uncertainty following military tensions in the Middle East. Disruption linked to the conflict involving Iran, the U.S., and Israel has raised concerns about shipping routes and energy supplies, particularly through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. According to von der Leyen, “the current Middle East crisis gives a stark reminder of the vulnerability” created by dependence on imported fossil fuels.
The European Commission is expected to introduce new energy measures that include a €200 million guarantee aimed at supporting investment in nuclear innovation. A key focus is the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), which are more compact than traditional nuclear plants and designed to be easier and more affordable to build. Brussels hopes such reactors could begin operating in Europe in the early 2030s.
Several EU member states are already reconsidering their positions on nuclear energy. France strongly supports expanding atomic power, while Belgium has delayed its nuclear phase-out. Governments in Sweden and the Netherlands are planning new plants, and Italy is also reviewing its stance. In contrast, Austria remains firmly opposed to nuclear power and Spain continues to prioritize renewable energy.
EU industry chief Stéphane Séjourné celebrated the EU nuclear pivot on Tuesday, March 10th saying Brussels now dared
to break certain taboos.
At the same time, EU officials said the bloc does not support lifting sanctions on Russian oil despite rising energy prices. Valdis Dombrovskis stated:
We must continue to exert maximum pressure on Russia,
warning that easing restrictions could “reinforce Russia’s capacity to wage war, undermining Ukraine.”
