Marine Le Pen, the candidate of the National Rally (Rassemblement National) in the French presidential election, has strongly warned about the potential consequences of the ban on diesel exports from the United States, deeming this action to have "incalculable" repercussions for French consumers.
Rising fuel prices and public concern
In an interview, Le Pen emphasized that rising fuel prices have severely impacted the daily lives of people and are now the biggest concern for the people of France. She stated in the interview: "The increase in prices seriously affects all French citizens, and this issue has become one of the main concerns of the country."
Following the rise in fuel prices in the United States, the Trump administration is considering a three-month halt on diesel exports. This possibility is currently being discussed among American officials and could have major impacts on the global fuel market. Le Pen believes that France, as one of the largest consumers of diesel, will be significantly affected by this decision.
Impacts on the French market
According to data, the United States is one of the main suppliers of diesel to France, with nearly 42,000 barrels of diesel imported from this country last month. If the export ban is implemented, France will face a fuel shortage, which could lead to further price increases.
Le Pen also proposed to the government to reduce energy taxes to lower prices. She deemed this action as the "only solution" to tackle the price crisis and responded to criticisms raised regarding this matter. She claimed that this tax reduction could cost around 12 billion euros, but could be compensated through necessary savings.
This electoral candidate also criticized Emmanuel Macron's government, pointing to his lack of effective action following the elections and the recent energy crisis. Le Pen suggested that instead of closing refineries, new refineries should be established in France to meet market demand.
