In a stunning development that has shaken diplomatic circles across Europe, former EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini—along with two other high-ranking officials—has been formally accused of procurement fraud, corruption, conflict of interest, and violating professional secrecy. The announcement was made by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) on Wednesday, marking one of the most high-profile investigations in recent EU history.
The three individuals were detained on Tuesday as part of an ongoing EU fraud probe. Though now released, EPPO clarified that none of them are considered flight risks. The investigation, however, continues in full force.
EPPO has identified the additional suspects as a senior staff member at the College of Europe in Bruges and a senior official within the European Commission. According to three Reuters sources, one of the detained individuals is believed to be senior EU diplomat Stefano Sannino. Attempts to reach Mogherini and Sannino for comment have so far been unsuccessful.
EPPO stressed that all individuals remain presumed innocent until proven guilty by the appropriate Belgian judicial authorities.
Their detentions follow a series of coordinated raids conducted at multiple locations including the EU’s diplomatic service headquarters in Brussels, the College of Europe in Bruges—an institution known for shaping future EU leaders—and the private residences of those under investigation.
Mogherini, who previously held the influential role of EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy from 2014 to 2019, has served as Rector of the College of Europe since 2020. EPPO stated that the probe is centered on suspected fraud involving EU-funded training programs for junior diplomats, raising serious questions about oversight, governance, and the integrity of institutional leadership.
Both Mogherini and Sannino, prominent Italian figures deeply entrenched in Brussels’ diplomatic ecosystem, have long been influential voices in international and European affairs. News of their detentions has sent shockwaves through EU institutions, leaving policymakers, students, and diplomatic partners grappling with the implications.
