French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot. Photo courtesy of Anadolu.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot demanded clarification after US Ambassador Charles Kushner did not appear following a summons regarding comments on a Lyon activist’s death.
The summons came after the ambassador posted a statement on the US Embassy’s website and social media about 23-year-old Quentin Deranque, who was killed during violent clashes between far-left and far-right groups earlier this month.
Barrot said Kushner’s failure to appear could affect his ability to perform official duties in France. He also said the ambassador’s access to French government officials would be limited until the matter is resolved.
The foreign minister described the no-show as unexpected and emphasized that diplomats are expected to respond to official summons from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Kushner’s post claimed that Deranque was “killed by far-left militants” and warned that rising left-wing extremism poses a threat to public safety.
Barrot rejected what he called foreign interference in French domestic affairs, stressing that France would not accept outside influence in national political debates.
He said the dispute would not damage overall diplomatic relations between France and the United States.
Officials noted that France and the US are preparing to mark the 250th anniversary of their bilateral relationship this year and intend to maintain cooperation despite the disagreement.
