In her speech, Von der Leyen reiterated that Russia is actively engaging in hybrid warfare against democracies. "We are indeed facing hybrid warfare led by Russia against democracies. But with truth, transparency, and a clear message, we are able to counter this threat," she stated during a press conference in Pristina, Kosovo’s capital.

Von der Leyen praised Kosovo’s economic progress and announced that Kosovo is expected to receive a 60 million euro grant this year as part of the EU’s 880 million euro Growth Plan for the region. This funding is intended to accelerate the integration of candidate countries into the EU by supporting necessary reforms.

The 6 billion euro aid package for the Western Balkans is set to be distributed from this year through 2027.

Her visit to Kosovo was part of a broader Western Balkans tour, with Kosovo as her final stop before Montenegro. In Pristina, she met with President Vjosa Osmani and Prime Minister Albin Kurti to discuss the region’s ongoing developments and EU integration efforts.