Core Viewpoint - The arrest of Federica Mogherini, former EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, and two others is linked to allegations of corruption and procurement fraud related to an EU-funded training program for young diplomats [3][5][9]. Group 1: Arrest and Investigation - Mogherini and two other individuals were arrested by Belgian police on December 2, 2023, under suspicion of prematurely disclosing tender information related to a diplomatic training project funded by the EU [3][5]. - The investigation is supported by the European Anti-Fraud Office and involves searches at the EU External Action Service headquarters and other locations [3][5]. Group 2: Project Details - The project in question, named "EU Diplomatic Academy," was awarded to the European College after a public tender process involving six educational institutions [7]. - The first phase of the project, lasting nine months, had a contract value of approximately €650,000, while the second phase's contract amount is set at €960,000 [5][7]. - The project is expected to be permanent by May 2024, with an annual budget of around €1.7 million allocated by the EU External Action Service [7]. Group 3: Implications and Reactions - The investigation raises concerns about potential violations of fair competition, procurement fraud, corruption, and conflicts of interest [7][9]. - The EU External Action Service has confirmed its cooperation with the investigation but refrained from commenting on the arrests [9].