European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that the decision to reduce the share of nuclear power in Europe's electricity production mix was a strategic error.

Speaking at a nuclear energy event in Paris, she remarked, "This reduction in nuclear energy's share was a decision, and I believe it was a mistake for Europe to turn away from this affordable, reliable, and low-emission source of electricity."

She noted that in 1990, one-third of the EU's electricity depended on nuclear power. Today, that proportion has fallen to only about 15%.

She added that the EU aims to stimulate the development of small reactors to reduce Europe's dependence on fossil fuel imports.

"We are witnessing a global nuclear revival," von der Leyen said while announcing €200 million (equivalent to $233 million) in investment guarantees from the EU to encourage investment in small modular reactors. "Europe intends to be part of it."

She indicated that the funding would come from the EU's emissions trading system. "We hope this technology can be operational by the early 2030s," she stated.

Von der Leyen described the surge in energy prices triggered by the Middle East conflict as a "brutal reminder" of Europe's vulnerability as a fossil fuel importer. She also emphasized the importance of increasing electricity generation from renewable energy and nuclear reactors.