The European Ombudsman has opened an inquiry into how the European Commission handled a request for access to messages reportedly exchanged in the “Washington Group” chat.
The European Ombudsman case file says Case 1214/2026/NH was opened June 19 after a May 21 complaint over the Commission’s refusal to grant access to text messages involving Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and world leaders in the reported informal chat.
The European Ombudsman has opened an inquiry into how the European Commission handled a request for access to reported “Washington Group” messages. — European Ombudsman case file
The complainant sought messages exchanged since Jan. 1, preservation from automatic deletion and a list of identified documents, whether or not access was granted.
The Commission confirmed informal contact with heads of state and government from EU and non-EU countries, orally and in writing, but refused access, citing public-interest protections tied to international relations.
Follow the Money reported the messages involved Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and outgoing British Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Ombudsman record does not independently name those participants.
Anjinho asked to meet Commission officials between July 1 and July 17 and requested the Commission file before July 1.
The case follows earlier disputes over Commission text-message records involving Pfizer talks and a Macron message on Mercosur.
This is a developing story. Virginia Times will update as information becomes available.
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