European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has been diagnosed with severe pneumonia, her office announced on Friday.
The illness has forced her to cancel all appointments for the first two weeks of January, disrupting a series of high-profile engagements that had been scheduled at the start of the new year.
A spokesperson for von der Leyen confirmed the diagnosis, stating, “She is dealing with severe pneumonia.” However, no additional details about her condition or the potential cause of her illness were disclosed. The announcement has raised concerns about her health as she undertakes the demanding role of leading the European Commission, the executive branch of the European Union.
The unexpected health setback has led to the postponement of several important commitments. Among them is a planned visit to Lisbon, where von der Leyen was slated to deliver a keynote speech. This visit was intended to highlight the EU’s priorities for 2025 and further strengthen relations with Portugal, a country at the forefront of renewable energy innovation and digital transformation within the EU.
Another canceled engagement was her trip to Gdansk, Poland, where she was scheduled to participate in the launch of the Polish EU Council Presidency. Poland began its six-month presidency of the EU Council on January 1st, marking an important milestone for the country’s role within the bloc.
The launch ceremony in Gdansk was intended to emphasise Poland’s leadership on key EU issues such as energy security, migration, and support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Von der Leyen’s absence from this event underlines the gravity of her health condition and the need for her to focus on recovery.
The EU Commission president also missed an opening gala in Warsaw on Friday evening, where Poland celebrated the start of its presidency with an event attended by prominent EU officials and Polish dignitaries. The gala was seen as an opportunity to showcase Poland’s vision for its presidency and its contributions to the broader European project. Von der Leyen’s inability to attend marked a notable absence, as she has been a visible and vocal advocate for European unity and cooperation.
Von der Leyen, a former German defence minister, has served as European Commission president since December 2019. Her tenure has been marked by significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the implementation of the European Green Deal, and the EU’s response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Known for her resilience and work ethic, von der Leyen has played a central role in shaping the EU’s policies on climate change, digital transformation, and geopolitical strategy.
Her illness comes at a critical time for the EU, as the bloc grapples with pressing issues such as energy transitions, economic recovery, and ongoing geopolitical tensions. The postponement of her engagements could have implications for the timing and visibility of key EU initiatives. However, her office has assured the public that von der Leyen remains committed to her responsibilities and will resume her duties once her health allows.
Severe pneumonia is a serious condition that can cause difficulty breathing, fever, and fatigue. Recovery often requires rest, medical care, and, in some cases, hospitalisation. The illness can be especially challenging for individuals with demanding professional roles, underscoring the importance of von der Leyen’s decision to prioritize her health during this period.
The European Commission has not provided a timeline for when von der Leyen is expected to return to her full duties, but the spokesperson emphasised that her recovery is the primary focus. In the interim, the Commission’s vice presidents and senior officials are expected to manage ongoing work and represent the EU at key events.
Von der Leyen’s health update has prompted an outpouring of support from EU leaders and citizens alike. Messages wishing her a swift recovery have flooded social media, highlighting the respect and goodwill she commands across Europe.
As von der Leyen takes time to recover, the European Union will undoubtedly feel the absence of its top executive. However, her leadership team remains committed to advancing the EU’s agenda and ensuring continuity in governance during her absence. The situation serves as a reminder of the human aspect behind high-stakes political roles and the importance of health in maintaining effective leadership.
