Overview
- The European Public Prosecutor’s Office carried out coordinated investigative measures on Tuesday that reporters said included searches in France, Spain, Italy and Belgium.
- The EPPO confirmed it is conducting an inquiry into the use of EU funds between 2019 and 2024 and said it will not release operational details to avoid jeopardizing the probe.
- Parliamentary auditors flagged transfers to firms and outside associations linked to the former Identity and Democracy group and the case under scrutiny covers about €4.3 million in allegedly ineligible spending.
- Jordan Bardella, leader of Rassemblement National, publicly confirmed searches at communications providers’ offices and private residences tied to the group and denied any wrongdoing.
- The European Parliament has urged faster recovery of contested payments so the administration can seek reimbursement while criminal proceedings continue and the case may lead to both financial claims and potential charges.