A political scandal within the European Union escalated sharply this week after Stefano Sannino — one of the bloc’s most senior officials — resigned shortly after being interrogated in an investigation into the suspected misallocation of EU funds. His decision has amplified institutional strain across Brussels and raised questions over oversight in the Union’s external governance.
As The WP Times reports, citing Renewz, the resignation is directly linked to ongoing scrutiny of financial flows connected to projects managed during Sannino’s tenure as Director-General for the Middle East, North Africa and the Gulf region. He was briefly detained, later released, yet remains formally listed as a suspect — an unprecedented development at this senior level within the EU administration.
Sannino confirmed he was questioned regarding an initiative launched while he served as Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS). In a written statement, he said he trusted the judicial process and expected full clarification of facts.
An internal notice stated that operational continuity of DG MENA must be ensured despite the investigation. His deputy Michael Karnicznik has been appointed acting chief until further decision. It marks the first recorded resignation of a Director-General directly following investigative raids within EEAS structures.
Heightened pressure on European External Action Service
The inquiry accelerated after coordinated searches related to potential fraud, corruption, and unauthorised use of EU funds. According to details referenced by The Times, the probe is conducted by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO), with seized documents, interviews and budget audits focusing on diplomatic training programmes and allocation processes.
Another prominent individual named is Federica Mogherini, former High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs. Both officials were questioned, held temporarily, and later released under suspicion status — intensifying the response inside EU institutions.
Consequences expanding beyond one resignation
The case is seen as a stress-test for transparency, accounting and budget governance within the EU's external service. Analysts in Brussels already anticipate further resignations or administrative restructuring as the investigation widens. Multiple projects and responsible officials are now under review, signalling potential long-term political fallout.
Mogherini’s involvement
On 2 December, Federica Mogherini was detained in Belgium after targeted searches under the same investigation. She held her post between 2014 and 2019 and has served as Rector of the College of Europe since 2020. Her inclusion in the case adds strategic weight and worldwide attention.
Read about the life of Westminster and Pimlico district, London and the world. 24/7 news with fresh and useful updates on culture, business, technology and city life: Britain Hit by Month's Worth of Rain: South Wales Under Threat of Major Flooding
