French authorities have barred Donald Trump’s ambassador to Paris, Charles Kushner, from conducting his diplomatic duties until he explains his refusal to comply with a foreign ministry summons regarding US comments about the killing of a far-right activist. The French foreign minister, Jean-Noël Barrot, emphasized the importance of Kushner engaging in a discussion with the ministry before resuming his duties.
Kushner, who is the father of Trump’s son-in-law Jared and missed a scheduled meeting at the ministry, will no longer have direct access to French government ministers. Barrot stressed the need for foreign diplomats, like Kushner, to abide by the basic rules of diplomacy by responding to summons from the foreign ministry.
The incident is not expected to impact the overall relationship between France and the United States according to Barrot. However, Kushner’s ability to carry out his duties in France may be affected until the matter is resolved. There are concerns regarding US sanctions against European figures, such as Thierry Breton, in addition to the recent diplomatic tensions.
The killing of far-right activist Quentin Deranque in Lyon sparked clashes between radical left and far-right supporters. Six men have been charged in connection with Deranque’s death, with the US state department monitoring the situation and urging justice for the perpetrators. The diplomatic fallout over Deranque’s killing includes tensions between France and Italy, with Macron criticizing Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s remarks.
The situation in France echoes a recent dispute between the Belgian government and the US ambassador to Brussels over an investigation involving Jewish men. Charles Kushner’s controversial past includes a criminal conviction for tax evasion, for which he was later pardoned by Trump.
