EU in the Hot Seat: Mogherini and Sannino Under Investigation in Fraud Probe

Brussels Breakdown: What We Know About the EU Fraud Probe

Picture it: a seemingly ordinary Tuesday in Brussels. You’re navigating the usual maze of EU bureaucracy, perhaps with a waffle in hand. What you’re not expecting is for federal police to raid the headquarters of the EU’s diplomatic corps, the European External Action Service (EEAS). But here we are.

This explosive operation was launched by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), an agency that’s quickly earning a reputation for taking no prisoners. The EPPO isn’t investigating a minor infraction; they have “strong suspicions” of corruption and wrongdoing surrounding a high-value contract to establish the new European Diplomatic Academy.

While official statements are cautiously worded, multiple sources confirm that former EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini and top official Stefano Sannino were detained for questioning. The EEAS’s statement that it’s “fully co-operating” is the institutional equivalent of trying to look casual while your house is on fire. This EU fraud probe has put the credibility of the entire diplomatic service on the line.

The College of Europe and a €60 Million Contract

At the heart of this storm is a lucrative €60 million contract to manage the new European Diplomatic Academy—think of it as a training ground for the next generation of Euro-diplomats.

The winner of this contract? The prestigious College of Europe. And who became the Rector of the College shortly after her term as EU High Representative ended in 2019? You guessed it: Federica Mogherini.

The plot thickens. Investigators are now meticulously examining the procurement process to determine if a former EU top official leading the institution that won a major contract from her old department is a mere coincidence or a serious conflict of interest. As the head of the EEAS administration, Stefano Sannino’s role in overseeing this process is also under intense scrutiny. The EPPO is essentially calling out the official story, demanding to see the receipts.

Key Figures in the Spotlight

Federica Mogherini

As the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs from 2014 to 2019, Mogherini was a towering figure on the world stage. After leaving her post, she took the helm at the College of Europe. What seemed like a quiet move into academia has now thrust her back into the spotlight for all the wrong reasons.

Stefano Sannino

Think of him as the administrative backbone of the EEAS, the person who signs off on major contracts and keeps the diplomatic machinery running. His detention is a shockwave in Brussels, raising serious questions about the integrity of the institution.

The EPPO: The EU’s New Anti-Corruption Watchdog

Remember the EPPO? They are the new sheriffs in town. Established in 2021, the EPPO has the power to investigate and prosecute financial crimes across 23 EU member states, cutting through the red tape that previously hampered such efforts.

By targeting such high-profile figures, the EPPO is sending a clear message to Brussels: no one is above the law. This EU corruption probe is their moment to prove they are a force to be reckoned with, not just another toothless committee.

Broader Implications: A Test of Integrity for Brussels

Let’s be honest, the EU’s reputation has taken a few hits recently. First, the “Qatargate” scandal rocked the European Parliament, exposing vulnerabilities to outside influence. Now, this probe into the EU’s executive branch is rubbing salt in the wound.

For an institution that champions anti-corruption globally, the suggestion of internal rot is more than just awkward—it’s a direct challenge to its credibility.

The presumption of innocence is paramount. However, the reputational damage is already done. This investigation puts immense pressure on the EU to demonstrate that its internal control mechanisms are robust and effective.

What’s Next?

Expect a period of intense questioning, legal wrangling, and deep investigation. Depending on the findings, this could lead to a full-blown trial, resignations, and significant reforms within the EU institutions.

The fallout could be enormous, with ripple effects across the diplomatic community. We’ll be watching this story more closely than a hawk.

A Moment of Reckoning for the EU

The detention of these high-level officials marks a watershed moment. It serves as a stark reminder that accountability applies to everyone, regardless of their position.

While the situation is deeply concerning, there’s a silver lining. The fact that the EU’s own watchdog is leading the charge shows that the system of checks and balances may be working. This is a painful but necessary process to root out any decay. How the EU navigates this crisis will determine whether it emerges weaker or stronger.