The National Rally, a party often criticized for its alleged closeness to Russia, changed its tone on Saturday, September 19. Marine Le Pen, the 2027 presidential candidate, and Jordan Bardella, her right-hand man, issued a statement in which they reject any form of intimidation from Moscow aimed at influencing French politics.
They assert that Russia cannot “hope to dictate” France’s policy “through intimidation,” marking a clear distancing from Moscow.
This turnaround comes amid growing tensions between Moscow and the National Rally, as the party seeks to position itself for the upcoming presidential election.