Budapest: Europe must become the master of its "own destiny," the president of the EU Council said Thursday in response to Donald Trump's nonconsecutive second term as US president. Charles Michel emphasized the need for Europe to strengthen its single market, boost competitiveness, and enhance its "European defense capabilities." According to Anadolu Agency, Michel reaffirmed Europe's continued support for Ukraine, stressing that "strengthening Ukraine means strengthening ourselves." He insisted that a just peace between Ukraine and Russia must align with the principles of the UN charter. The discussions took place at the European Political Community (EPC) meeting in Budapest, Hungary's capital. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen assured that the EU would work "in a good manner" with the new Trump administration, emphasizing the importance of analyzing shared interests. Von der Leyen highlighted the need to send a clear message to global autocrats about the importance of the rule of law, particul arly in regard to the situation in Ukraine. Finland's Prime Minister Petteri Orpo reiterated Europe's commitment to supporting Ukraine "for as long and as much as needed," while also underscoring the importance of strengthening Europe's defense and security. The European leaders gathered in Budapest for the fifth EPC summit to discuss global issues such as Ukraine, the Middle East, irregular migration, and Europe's economic security. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban hosted the meeting, with plans for a news conference with Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama following the discussions.