Key facts
- EPPO is investigating the alleged misuse of €4.3 million in EU funds.
- Raids have been conducted across France, Spain, Italy, and Belgium.
- The investigation targets the defunct European Parliament's Identity and Democracy group.
- Prosecutors are examining potential breaches of public tender rules and irregular donations.
- The group has been rebranded as the "Patriots for Europe" coalition.
The European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) has initiated a series of raids across France, Spain, Italy, and Belgium as part of an investigation into the alleged misuse of €4.3 million in EU funds. The probe targets the former European Parliament's Identity and Democracy group, focusing on potential violations of public tender rules and irregular donation practices between 2019 and 2024.
Although the political group has been rebranded into the new "Patriots for Europe" coalition, led by Jordan Bardella, the investigation continues to follow the financial trail. Prosecutors are reportedly searching the offices and homes of communication providers associated with the defunct group. Bardella has previously described the investigation as a "harassment operation."
The timing of these developments is particularly sensitive for Bardella's National Rally party, as Marine Le Pen is awaiting a court decision on a potential five-year ban from public office due to alleged embezzlement of public funds. If upheld, Bardella is positioned as her successor.