Russia Furious Over French Court’s Ban on Le Pen

The Kremlin slammed a French court ruling that bars far-right leader Marine Le Pen from holding office for five years, calling it a politically motivated move.

Kremlin: “Violation of Democratic Norms”

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov criticized the decision, saying, “More and more European capitals are going down the path of violating democratic norms.”

Le Pen Convicted in Fake Jobs Case

The court’s ruling follows Le Pen’s conviction in a fake parliamentary jobs scheme, casting serious doubt on her chances to run in France’s 2027 presidential election.

Russia Claims It Doesn’t Meddle — But Criticizes Europe

“We do not interfere in France’s internal affairs,” said Peskov. “But we observe that Europe is increasingly stepping outside the bounds of democracy.”

Longstanding Ties Between Le Pen and Russia

A French parliamentary report in 2023 detailed a “long-standing” connection between Le Pen’s National Rally party and Russian officials.

Moscow’s “Communication Channel” in France?

The report claimed Le Pen’s party served as a “communication channel” for the Kremlin — citing frequent contacts with Russian authorities.

Le Pen Slams Report as “Dishonest and Politicized”

Le Pen rejected the allegations, calling the parliamentary report “completely dishonest” and “pure political manipulation.”

$6.5 Million Russian Loan Still Haunts Le Pen

Much of the scrutiny surrounds a €6 million loan Le Pen’s party took from a Russian bank in 2014 — a debt that wasn’t repaid until 2023.

Le Pen Met Putin Weeks Before 2017 Election

In a move that drew international attention, Le Pen met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin just weeks before France’s 2017 election.

Macron Warned of Putin Ties Ahead of 2022 Election

Before their 2022 runoff, French President Emmanuel Macron accused Le Pen of being “financially dependent on Mr. Putin” and warned of her loyalty to Moscow.

Le Pen Tries to Distance Herself from Moscow

Following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Le Pen attempted to soften her image and distance herself from the Kremlin.

Political Storm Brews Ahead of 2027 Election

With the five-year ban now in place, Russia accuses France of political suppression — and the future of Le Pen’s political career hangs in the balance.