The far-right National Rally Party of France on Saturday issued a rare statement condemning Russia for its hostile actions. This statement comes amid increasing hybrid attacks and other provocations from Moscow.
Condemnation of Asset Seizures
The statement refers to the seizure of assets from several companies still operating in Russia, including the French retailer Auchan and the Swiss food and beverage giant Nestlé. The leaders of the National Rally wrote, "This is a hostile act against the interests of France and the nations of Europe and must be strongly condemned."
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Threats from the Ukraine War
This statement was released after a rare crisis meeting held by Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, where political leaders, including Grégory Bardeau, were informed about the threats stemming from Russia's war in Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East. Bardeau and Marine Le Pen, the party leader, also referenced the drone attack at Leipzig Airport in August, which German officials attributed to Russia. The statement reads: "No provocation, covert operation, or attempt at destabilization can compel France to facilitate Russia's achievement of its war objectives in Ukraine."
This statement is a rare sign of unity within the party, which has previously been divided on how to deal with the Kremlin. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 exposed internal rifts within this movement.
Different Positions of Party Leaders
Marine Le Pen has historically held a warmer stance towards Russia and has previously met with Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia. Her party also received a €9.4 million loan from a Czech-Russian bank with ties to the Kremlin, which was later repaid. In contrast, Bardeau, a Member of the European Parliament, is more inclined to present Russia as a threat to France and Europe.
Le Pen, who hopes to be elected President next year instead of Macron, is inclined to provide military equipment to Ukraine but has rejected providing further financial aid. The statement clearly states: "Resoluteness against hostile actions and the pursuit of a diplomatic solution to the war are not contradictory."
The National Rally is set to release its electoral platform before the end of this year, which may clarify its positions on Ukraine and Russia.
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