EU prosecutors still await von der Leyen’s statement in Pfizer vaccine probe

The investigation, known as “Pfizergate,” concerns alleged criminal wrongdoing linked to vaccine negotiations between von der Leyen and Pfizer CEO Albert Bourla.

EPPO took over the Belgian-led investigation in 2024.

Legal documents cited by Politico indicate that prosecutors have been examining allegations of “interference in public functions, destruction of SMS, corruption and conflict of interest.”

Von der Leyen has yet to give an in-person statement to EPPO as part of its investigation, according to a source familiar with the matter.

Asked about reports that von der Leyen had not provided an in-person statement, European Commission spokesperson Thomas Regnier said the institution had cooperated extensively with EPPO.

He added that the cooperation had taken place with the full support of von der Leyen, who remained willing to address outstanding questions within the limits of her duties and availability as commission president.

Meanwhile, EPPO Chief Prosecutor Laura Codruta Kovesi said some EU officials had refused to respond to summonses issued by her office.

“Some politicians think that they are above the law,” Kovesi told Politico in an interview. “If you are called in for a statement, you have to come.”

She said her office faced difficulties exercising its investigative powers, particularly when cases involved high-profile politicians or wealthy individuals with political connections.

However, Kovesi declined to comment on whether von der Leyen was among the officials she was referring to.

Established in 2017 and operational since 2021, EPPO is responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes affecting the financial interests of the European Union.