Russian security official insults top EU figures, accuses them of mismanagement

Deputy Head of the Russian Security Council Dmitry Medvedev has publicly criticised former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Federica Mogherini and current European leaders, drawing comparisons between their careers and the plot of the film "In Bruges."

In a post on his Telegram channel, Medvedev commented on the career trajectories of European officials and expressed disapproval of their political stances, Caliber.Az reports. 

In the message, Medvedev drew a comparison to the film "In Bruges," referencing Mogherini’s role as rector of the College of Europe in Bruges following her tenure as the EU’s top foreign policy official. He suggested she had retreated into what he described as a “comfortable post-career position” and claimed she had left her previous role “in disgrace.”

Medvedev contrasted Mogherini with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs Kaja Kallas, whom he accused of corruption and strong anti-Russian positions, using personal insults. He alleged that von der Leyen mishandled issues related to vaccine procurement during the COVID-19 pandemic and claimed that Kallas’s husband benefited from business ties with Russia.

The Russian official argued that, while Moscow and Washington are engaged in discussions on ending the conflict in Ukraine, Europe’s current leadership is “encouraging” continued hostilities. He concluded the post with harsh personal remarks directed at von der Leyen and Kallas, expressing hope that they would eventually leave office or face political consequences.

The comments follow news that Mogherini, who currently serves as rector of the College of Europe in Bruges, Belgium, was among three individuals arrested by Belgian authorities on December 2. The arrests are part of a wider investigation into the financing and alleged misuse of funds at the Bruges-based academy for young diplomats. Belgian police conducted raids at the College of Europe and at private residences linked to the case.

By Sabina Mammadli