Le Pen and Bardella Condemn Russian Pressure on French Firms

Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella have issued a direct condemnation of Russian actions targeting French economic interests, marking a notable shift in the National Rally’s public stance. The statement, released after a high-level security briefing at the Élysée Palace, describes Moscow's recent measures as hostile acts against France and Europe.

The intervention came on the heels of a meeting convened by President Emmanuel Macron to brief parliamentary leaders on the evolving international security landscape. According to the official account, French intelligence agencies reported a recent intensification of hybrid threats, including cyber operations and physical incidents, prompting the leadership to call for a firm response.

Shift From Previous Diplomatic Posture

This declaration stands in contrast to the party’s earlier platform, which during the 2022 campaign advocated for closer relations with Russia. Those proposals were later removed from the party’s defense program, a transition noted by eutoday.net in previous reporting. The current language frames Russian influence as a matter of national security rather than mere diplomatic disagreement.

Le Pen and Bardella specifically criticized the decision to place Russian subsidiaries of European companies under temporary administration. They characterized this move as a direct threat to the rights and interests of European businesses, arguing that such pressure tactics must be firmly rejected to preserve national sovereignty.

Intelligence Briefings Highlight Hybrid Threats

During the Élysée meeting, representatives from domestic and foreign intelligence services detailed the scope of recent hostile activities. President Macron indicated that these threats have worsened in recent weeks, leading to instructions for the government to strengthen protections for critical infrastructure and the defense industrial base.

The National Rally leaders stated that the information presented confirmed their concerns about the deteriorating security environment. They cited specific incidents, including a drone event at Leipzig airport, as evidence of a broader pattern of destabilization aimed at European stability and economic interests.

Distinction Between Security and Support

While condemning Russian interference, the statement carefully distinguished between opposing hostile actions and debating the scale of French support for Ukraine. This nuance allows the party to assert a hardline security stance while leaving room for policy debates regarding military aid.

This approach mirrors broader European efforts to coordinate responses to cyberattacks and sabotage. As the 2027 presidential election approaches, the clarity of France’s security posture will likely become a central theme, with the National Rally now positioning itself as a defender against external pressure.