France's National Rally issues rare rebuke of Russia

Leaders of France's far-right National Rally party issued an unusually sharp joint statement on Saturday condemning Russia, linking it to a rise in hybrid threats and provocations attributed to Moscow. Party president Jordan Bardella and presidential candidate Marine Le Pen stated they would never accept a foreign power, in this case Russia, attempting to dictate French policy through intimidation, threats or psychological pressure, whether directly or indirectly.

The statement referenced Russia's seizure of assets belonging to several companies still operating in the country, including French retailer Auchan and Swiss food giant Nestlé. Bardella and Le Pen described the move as a hostile act against the interests of France and European nations that must be firmly condemned.

The statement came a day after French President Emmanuel Macron chaired a rare crisis meeting, briefing the country's political leaders, including Bardella, on threats stemming from Russia's war in Ukraine and the conflict in the Middle East. Le Pen and Bardella also referenced the August drone attack at Leipzig airport, which German authorities have attributed to Russia.

A rare show of unity

The joint statement marks an unusual moment of cohesion for a party that has long been divided over how to treat the Kremlin. Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 exposed internal rifts within the movement. Le Pen has historically taken a warmer approach toward Russia, having met with President Vladimir Putin in the past, and her party once took a €9.4 million loan from a Czech-Russian bank linked to the Kremlin, which has since been repaid. Bardella, a member of the European Parliament, has been more inclined to frame Russia as a threat to France and Europe.

Le Pen, who hopes to succeed Macron as president next year, has said she is open to supplying military equipment to Ukraine but has ruled out further financial assistance as Kyiv continues to resist Russia's ongoing offensive. The National Rally is expected to release its campaign platform before the end of the year, which could clarify the party's positions on Ukraine and Russia.