Is the EU spy unit about to become reality? Von der Leyen wants her own secret service

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen plans to create an EU intelligence unit that would gather information from member states' national security services, according to media reports on Tuesday.

The Commission said the outfit would make "better operational use" of existing data, but EU diplomats view it primarily as an expansion of von der Leyen's power, FT newspaper reported.

Commission spokesperson Paula Pinho said on Tuesday the new unit would "complement the services of the European External Action Service and play a key role in the preparation of the so-called Security College."

The Security College comprises the 26 commissioners and the Commission president. It met for the first time in March when the Commission expanded its security remit.

Criticism from EU diplomats

Senior EU diplomats criticised the plan, fearing dual structures and power struggles in Brussels, according to reports. Some diplomats worry the move could damage their influence and careers.

The plan has not been officially presented to the 27 member states but would involve seconding personnel from national intelligence services to the new authority.

Two people familiar with the process said they expect EU capitals to resist giving Brussels new intelligence powers.

However, they noted doubts about the effectiveness of existing European security structures, particularly regarding Russia's hybrid warfare.

The intelligence cell would work with the European External Action Service, but could reduce the influence of EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas while strengthening von der Leyen's position, diplomats said.

The move follows pressure from Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and US President Donald Trump's threats to limit security guarantees and intelligence sharing with Europe.