Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

EU Leader Ursula von der Leyen Faces Vaccine Deal Scandal

5/18/2025

45 9

Summary

Story summary

A scandal is brewing around Ursula von der Leyen, the European Union's leader, as secret vaccine deals with Big Pharma come to light. The European Court of Justice has condemned her for erasing texts tied to €71 billion in taxpayer-funded contracts. This has sparked outrage among EU nations, who are now demanding clarity and accountability.

1 of 1

Story summary

A scandal is brewing around Ursula von der Leyen, the European Union's leader, as secret vaccine deals with Big Pharma come to light. The European Court of Justice has condemned her for erasing texts tied to €71 billion in taxpayer-funded contracts. This has sparked outrage among EU nations, who are now demanding clarity and accountability.