Ex-EU diplomat held in fraud probe

Federica Mogherini, the former chief diplomat of the European Union, was taken into custody on Tuesday in connection with a fraud investigation, according to Belgian news agency Belga. Authorities also detained two additional individuals while conducting searches at the EU's diplomatic service in Brussels and at the College of Europe in Bruges, the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) stated in a press release. Residences of the suspects were also searched.

The investigation centers on the European External Action Service (EEAS) and the College of Europe, regarding alleged fraud linked to an EU-funded training program for diplomats. Mogherini, who previously served as Italys foreign minister and led the EEAS, currently heads the European Union Diplomatic Academy and serves as rector of the College of Europe. The other two individuals reportedly include a former EEAS secretary general and the deputy director of the College of Europe.

EPPO explained that the College of Europe was responsible for implementing the training initiative for junior EU diplomats following a formal tender process. The inquiry is examining whether the university or its representatives had prior knowledge of the selection criteria or were aware they would secure the project before the tender announcement.

The prosecutors highlighted "strong suspicions" of breaches of financial regulations and possible leaks of confidential information. They emphasized that the investigation continues to determine the facts and assess potential criminal liability. All individuals involved are considered innocent until proven guilty.

Author: Connor Blake