Pavlos Xanthoulis
The arrests of former EU High Representative Federica Mogherini and veteran EU technocrat Stefano Sannino on charges of public procurement fraud and corruption have sent shockwaves through European institutions, casting a new shadow over the already fragile reputation of the European Union.
The move, initiated by Belgian authorities with investigations from the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) and the European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF), comes at a particularly delicate moment for the EU. With its influence waning on the global stage, from Ukraine to Gaza, and facing criticism from former U.S. President Donald Trump, the new scandal threatens to further erode confidence in Brussels and the European project itself.
Inside the EU, tension is mounting
Officials say the scandal could increase pressure on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Already under scrutiny after previous controversies, including the “Qatargate” affair and legal battles over COVID-19 vaccine contracts, the Commission President has weathered several censure motions in recent months. Sources suggest that the latest case could embolden critics who want to weaken her authority, even drawing parallels to the collapse of the Santer Commission in 1999 over mismanagement scandals.
Despite the mounting storm, political math keeps von der Leyen afloat: pro-European groups like the Socialists, Liberals, Greens, and the European People’s Party continue to support her, even amid criticism of the new EU budget proposals for 2028-2034.
Fuel for nationalist narratives
The arrests also provide ammunition for nationalist and far-right parties across Europe. Hungary’s government, for instance, has already framed the scandal as “another shocking EU scandal,” suggesting corruption is routine in Brussels. In Germany, the far-right AfD is using the developments to bolster its rising poll numbers, while in France, the political impact is complicated by the past conviction of Marine Le Pen over EU fund misuse.
A blow to the EU’s international credibility
Beyond internal politics, the scandal risks further tarnishing the EU’s image abroad. Analysts warn that Moscow is already seizing on the controversy to paint the EU as hypocritical, citing corruption and mismanagement. The situation is particularly sensitive given ongoing discussions over €210 billion in frozen Russian assets, with Brussels and member states still debating whether to use the funds.
Repercussions for Cyprus
The unfolding drama also hits close to home for Cyprus. Nicosia is set to assume the EU Council presidency in a matter of weeks, and officials worry that a weakened Commission could undercut efforts to push EU priorities, including a renewed push for progress in resolving the Cyprus problem. President Nikos Christodoulides has long relied on EU influence to engage Turkey constructively, and a credibility gap in Brussels could undermine those delicate diplomatic efforts.
In short: the Mogherini-Sannino scandal is more than a Brussels story. It’s a reminder of the fragility of EU institutions, the political tools nationalists can exploit, and the real-world consequences for member states trying to leverage European clout, from budget talks to international diplomacy.
