EU considers overhaul of diplomatic structure to improve crisis response

A French government discussion paper, seen by multiple outlets, has outlined three scenarios for restructuring the EU's diplomatic service: consolidating foreign policy under the European Commission, shifting operational control to the EU Council of member states, or expanding Kallas's authority by making her 'first executive vice president' with oversight of trade and other geopolitically relevant portfolios. The paper reflects a broader consensus among EU officials that the EEAS, established in 2011, has produced institutional dysfunction and duplication alongside the Commission under Ursula von der Leyen, who has increasingly positioned herself as a foreign policy actor. Kallas responded with an internal email to EEAS staff defending the service and noting that institutional roles are clearly defined in EU treaties, which remain unchanged. EU officials cautioned that any significant restructuring would require treaty amendments not currently on the agenda, and one diplomat argued that the real obstacle to effective EU foreign policy is the unanimity requirement for member-state decisions, not institutional design. The EEAS is preparing its own options paper, and a first ministerial-level discussion is expected at the informal Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Ireland on September 2. The French paper was noted to be an unofficial working document not approved by the French Foreign Minister.