Diplomats: von der Leyen oversteps her mandate

According to Politico, some European governments are criticising European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen over her approach to foreign policy. Diplomats and politicians interviewed by the website say she overstepped her mandate during the first days of the US-Israeli attacks on Iran by presenting herself as the European Union’s main representative abroad.

Nine diplomats, EU officials and lawmakers from several countries said von der Leyen was encroaching on the powers of EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas. According to them, Kallas is responsible for coordinating foreign policy and representing the member states.

The criticism is also linked to the fact that in the early days of the crisis, von der Leyen spoke by phone with several EU and Gulf leaders and indicated support for regime change in Tehran. Critics say she was promoting positions that go beyond the common consensus of the member states.

French MEP Nathalie Loiseau said she was surprised to see the Commission president calling Gulf leaders without a mandate from the member states. Diplomats also warned that such an approach could create confusion in the EU’s foreign relations.

The European Commission rejected the criticism. According to a spokesperson, von der Leyen is performing her duties in accordance with the Union’s treaties and contacting world leaders forms part of her political responsibilities.

According to the Commission, the EU’s official position on the war with Iran was formulated by High Representative Kaja Kallas after coordination with the 27 member states.

(max)