Von der Leyen Unveils New EU Commissioners

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has unveiled her new team, marking a significant push for gender balance with 40 percent of the roles filled by women, despite initial reluctance from EU member states. Key appointments include Kaja Kallas of Estonia as the new foreign policy chief and Lithuanian Andrius Kubilius overseeing the defense portfolio, reflecting a strong stance against Russia. The team also includes Spanish Socialist Teresa Ribero for the green transition and anti-trust roles, and Raffaele Fitto from Italy's Brothers of Italy party as executive vice president. Controversy surrounds the resignation of French Commissioner Thierry Breton, who accused von der Leyen of questionable governance. The new Commission still faces parliamentary approval amidst ongoing protests in Brussels against industrial layoffs, highlighting the political and economic challenges ahead.