EU chief wins second term, pledges 'defence union

She lays out plans to boost industry and security, vows to stick to climate targets

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European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen was elected for a second term on July 18 after pledging to create a continental "defence union" and to stay the course on Europe's green transition while cushioning its burden on industry.

Members of the European Parliament backed Dr von der Leyen's bid for another five-year term at the helm of the European Union's powerful executive body, with 401 votes in her favour and 284 against in a secret ballot in the 720-member chamber.

In an address to Parliament in Strasbourg, France, earlier in the day, Dr von der Leyen laid out a programme focused on prosperity and security, shaped by the challenges of Russia's war in Ukraine, global economic competition and climate change.

"The next five years will define Europe's place in the world for the next five decades. It will decide whether we shape our own future or let it be shaped by events or by others," Dr von der Leyen said ahead of a secret ballot on her candidacy.