EU’s von der Leyen has ‘severe pneumonia’ – spokesman

The European Commission President will continue carrying out “official business” from her personal residence in Hanover

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, 66, has been diagnosed with severe pneumonia, resulting in the cancellation of her official engagements for the next several weeks.

Stefan De Keersmaeker, a spokesperson for the European Commission, confirmed her condition on Friday, stating that planned trips to Lisbon, Portugal, and Gdansk, Poland, would be rescheduled for a later date.

“The president has canceled her external engagements for the first two weeks of January. She is dealing with a severe pneumonia,” he said, as cited by Politico.

The President is currently recuperating but continues to handle “official business” remotely from her residence in Hanover, Germany, according to the spokesperson.

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Von der Leyen began her second five-year term as President of the European Commission on December 1, 2024. The EC has not announced whether anyone will temporarily assume part of her responsibilities during her recovery. No changes to its broader agenda have been indicated, apart from the cancellation of von der Leyen’s personal engagements. She is expected to fully resume her duties in Brussels by mid-January, health permitting.

No further details about her condition or the circumstances leading to her illness have been disclosed. Pneumonia, an infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs, can range in severity from mild to life-threatening. It is particularly dangerous for older adults and those with pre-existing health conditions.

The European Commission, which von der Leyen has led since 2019, is responsible for proposing legislation, enforcing EU treaties, and managing the bloc’s daily affairs. Her temporary absence coincides with a crucial period when the Commission is set to address key issues, including implementing policies under the newly approved Competitiveness Compass, an economic framework for the next five years.