France (Washington Insider Magazine) – Leaders in Europe and the United States reacted with mixed feelings Monday to the results of the French parliamentary elections over the weekend, which left France with a potential parliament without a majority and political paralysis. While there is relief that the far-right National Rally did not win the most seats, the lack of a clear majority in the National Assembly is a cause for concern.
Relief Over Far-Right Defeat
Relief emerged as the far-right National Rally did not appear as the strongest party, which had been a significant fear among pro-European leaders. However, the lack of a clear majority for any political group in the National Assembly has sparked concerns.
Biden’s Analysis
In a telephone interview on Monday morning, US President Joe Biden commented on the French election result and pointed to the inaccuracy of the pre-election polls. “The polls in France were wrong,” he said, adding, “There’s no right-wing wave or current here in America either.” Biden praised France for its rejection of extremism
German Chancellor’s Perspective
According to APnews, with a view to the long-standing Franco-German partnership, Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz explained that a victory for the right-wing populists would have brought serious challenges. Scholz expressed the hope that President Emmanuel Macron and the newly elected MPs would form a stable government and emphasized the significance of Franco-German relations for the success of the EU.
Polish Prime Minister’s Reaction
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk expressed enthusiasm over the election results, highlighting the relief felt in Paris and Kyiv and disappointment in Moscow. “In Paris enthusiasm, in Moscow disappointment, in Kyiv relief. Enough to be happy in Warsaw,” Tusk posted on X late Sunday.
UK’s Stance on Cooperation
In London, a government spokesperson indicated that British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was prepared to work with the French leadership regardless of political affiliation. “France is one of the U.K.’s closest partners — as NATO and G7 members we have many shared interests,” the spokesperson said.
Election Results and Political Implications
A leftist coalition formed to face the far-right emerged victorious in France’s final results, securing the majority of parliamentary seats. While the far-right National Rally dramatically increased seats but fell short of predictions, Macron’s centrist alliance came in second.
Warning from Pro-European Politicians
Despite the relief over the far-right’s defeat, some pro-European politicians warned that the election results were not entirely positive. Michael Roth, a German foreign policy expert, emphasized that the nationalist populists on both the right and left are stronger than ever, while the political center has weakened.
Macron’s Future and European Impact
Although it’s unclear which party will provide the next prime minister, Macron will retain certain powers over foreign policy, European affairs, and defense. However, his weakened position following the election will have implications for France and Europe. Ronja Kempin, an analyst at the German Institute for International and Security Affairs, noted that Germany may need to adapt to the new political balance in France.
Reactions from Italy
In Italy, far-right populist League leader Matteo Salvini praised Marine Le Pen’s National Rally for its best-ever parliamentary result, criticizing Macron’s efforts to prevent her party from gaining a majority. Salvini also condemned post-election violence, blaming “communists and social centers, pro-Islamists and antisemites” for the unrest.
