Ursula von der Leyen was not questioned in person by the EPPO in the Pfizergate case / Kövesi warns about political pressure

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has not yet been questioned in person by the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) in the investigation into negotiations over the purchase of COVID-19 vaccines, POLITICO reports. The information comes from a person involved in the proceedings who requested anonymity.

In 2024, the EPPO took over the investigation initially opened in Belgium, which concerns discussions between von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla. Prosecutors are examining possible interference in the exercise of public functions, the destruction of SMS messages, corruption and conflicts of interest.

The European Commission says it has cooperated extensively with the EPPO and that the institution’s president remains available to answer questions within the limits of her responsibilities.

In an interview given at the end of her term, European Chief Prosecutor Laura Codruța Kövesi said that some politicians consider themselves “above the law” and refuse to comply with summonses. She did not comment directly on the von der Leyen case, but warned that the EPPO is affected by underfunding, legislative delays and political pressure. Kövesi also criticized intimidation attempts in Greece and said that the institution’s future depends on maintaining its independence and credibility.