EU Official Sannino Resigns After Interrogation Over Alleged Fund Misappropriation
High-ranking European Commission official Stefano Sannino has unexpectedly stepped down from his role following an interrogation related to a criminal investigation into the potential misuse of EU funds. This departure marks one of the most significant personnel disruptions within the European administration in recent years. The decision is directly linked to ongoing investigations concerning financial flows within projects that were under Sannino's supervision during his tenure as Director-General for the Middle East, North Africa, and the Gulf region. The official was briefly detained by authorities, subsequently released, but remains listed as a suspect in the proceedings. In an internal communication, Sannino confirmed his questioning regarding a program implemented while he served as Secretary-General of the European External Action Service (EEAS). He stated that he maintains "complete faith in the work of the judicial authorities" and anticipates a full clarification of the matter, informs by NT24.
The internal memo also emphasized that the functionality of the Directorate-General for the Middle East, North Africa, and the Gulf region (DG MENA) must be ensured despite the ongoing investigation. As an interim measure, Michael Karnicznik, the former Deputy Director, is now leading the DG MENA. This situation represents the first documented resignation at this senior level directly linked to the current inquiries targeting EEAS structures. The investigation centers on alleged instances of fraud, corruption, and the improper use of budget allocations within EU training programs designated for diplomats. Multiple raids, the securing of relevant documentation, and corroborating testimonies have accelerated the investigative process, consequently intensifying scrutiny of the involved institutions.
In addition to Sannino, a second key figure has been named as an accused in the case: Federica Mogherini, the former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy. Both individuals were interviewed by judicial authorities, briefly detained, and subsequently released, retaining their official suspect status. These dramatic events have ignited a substantial debate in Brussels regarding the necessity of greater control, oversight, and transparency within the Union's external structures.
The political fallout may only be beginning. For the first time, a top EU official is at the center of a criminal legal procedure, potentially making this case a turning point for internal governance within the EU. Several programs and areas of responsibility are currently under review, and further questioning of personnel is widely considered probable. The developments significantly increase the pressure on the EU leadership, as the case carries institutional, not just financial, repercussions. Observers suggest that both personnel decisions and structural adjustments within the EU framework may become unavoidable. Mogherini, who served as the EU's High Representative from 2014 to 2019 and has been the Rector of the College of Europe since 2020, was arrested in Belgium on December 2 following searches related to the same investigation file. Monika Schmidt is covering the story.
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