France PM Emmanuel Macron and Italy PM Giorgia Meloni have clashed after a far-right activist was killed in Lyon, escalating political tensions between Paris and Rome ahead of key elections.
WEBDESK – Source: AFP / Reuters
A diplomatic row has erupted between French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni following the killing of a French far-right activist in Lyon, deepening tensions between Paris and Rome.
The dispute centers on the death of 23-year-old Quentin Deranque, who was fatally beaten during clashes at a far-right protest in Lyon on February 12. French prosecutors have confirmed that seven individuals will face murder-related charges, including an assistant to a lawmaker from the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party. All suspects deny the accusations.
Meloni condemns killing, Macron hits back
Meloni described the killing as “a wound for all of Europe,” blaming what she called groups linked to left-wing extremism. Her comments drew a pointed response from Macron, who suggested foreign leaders should avoid commenting on internal French matters.
Speaking during a visit to India, Macron criticized nationalist politicians who resist outside involvement in their own countries but are quick to speak on events abroad. When asked directly if he was referring to Meloni, he confirmed he was.
Meloni later said her remarks had been misunderstood and expressed regret if they were perceived as interference.
Rising political tensions in France
The incident has jolted France’s political landscape, intensifying tensions between far-right and far-left groups ahead of municipal elections in March and the 2027 presidential race. With Macron constitutionally barred from seeking another term, opinion polls show the far right currently leading in early projections.
Wider strain in Franco-Italian ties
The clash reflects broader disagreements between Macron and Meloni, who have previously differed on European Union policy, migration, trade, and the Ukraine war. Meloni also referenced Italy’s violent “Years of Lead,” warning against a return to political extremism and recalling past tensions over France granting asylum to members of Italy’s Red Brigades.
As the investigation in Lyon continues, the killing has not only shaken French politics but also strained relations between two key European powers.
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