Ex-EU Foreign Policy Chief Accuses Commission of Overreach

Josep Borrell, the former High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has accused the European Commission of exceeding its mandate. Borrell contends that the Commission, under President Ursula von der Leyen, is increasingly encroaching on foreign and defense policy matters, leading to confusion on the global stage.

In an interview with Politico, Borrell stated that the overlapping roles of the Commission and the European External Action Service (EEAS), which he previously led and is now headed by Kaja Kallas, have created significant disarray within the EU's foreign policy system. He emphasized that the Commission represents only itself, not the entire European Union.

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The Commission does not speak for the European Union; the Commission only represents the Commission.

Borrell's remarks highlight a growing tension over institutional roles and responsibilities within the EU's foreign policy apparatus. The former chief's critique suggests a power struggle or a lack of clear demarcation between the Commission's executive functions and the EEAS's diplomatic mandate, potentially undermining the EU's unified voice in international affairs.

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The Commission is not speaking for the European Union; the Commission only represents the Commission.