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2d ago

Mogherini, Senior EU Official Formally Accused in EU Tender Fraud Probe

Prosecutors are examining whether the 2021–22 contract was skewed toward the College of Europe, with raids, lifted immunities, plus OLAF support signaling an active case.

A car drives around a rotary near the entrance of the European External Action Service in the European Quarter of Brussels, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Carlson)
FILE - European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini speaks during a media conference at the European Convention Center in Luxembourg, on Oct. 14, 2019. (AP Photo/Virginia Mayo, File)
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People walk near the entrance of the European External Action Service in the European Quarter of Brussels, Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2025. (AP Photo/Mark Carlson)

Overview

  • EPPO said three people, including former EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, were notified of accusations after questioning and released as they are not considered flight risks.
  • Belgian federal police searched the EEAS headquarters in Brussels, multiple College of Europe sites in Bruges, and suspects’ homes at EPPO’s request.
  • The investigation focuses on the EU Diplomatic Academy pilot, a nine‑month training program awarded in 2021–22, with the contract reported at about €650,000.
  • EPPO cites strong suspicions of breached fair‑competition rules, alleging confidential tender information was shared; potential offenses include procurement fraud, corruption, conflict of interest, and violation of professional secrecy.
  • The College of Europe and the European Commission pledged full cooperation; Commission officials said Director‑General Stefano Sannino has taken leave until retiring at year‑end, and EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas outlined strengthened anti‑fraud safeguards.