Russia Accuses France of Killing Democracy After Marine Le Pens Conviction

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Thursday accused France of "killing democracy" following the conviction of far-right leader Marine Le Pen. The comments came after Le Pen was banned from running in the 2027 French presidential election due to a conviction for embezzlement earlier this week.

Zakharova expressed Russia’s hope that Le Pen would succeed in appealing the judgment, signaling Moscow’s dissatisfaction with the ruling. "What happened in France is nothing short of the destruction of democratic principles," she said, adding that the conviction of a major political leader raises concerns about the integrity of the French judicial and political systems.

Le Pen, a long-time critic of French President Emmanuel Macron and leader of the National Rally, has been one of the most prominent opposition figures in France. Her disqualification from the 2027 race is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s political landscape, where she has consistently been a strong contender against Macron’s centrist policies.

Moscow’s sharp reaction comes amid growing tensions between Russia and France, particularly over Macron’s stance on Ukraine. The French president has been one of the leading voices in Europe supporting Kyiv, backing military aid, and even suggesting that European troops could be deployed in Ukraine in the event of a peace settlement with Moscow. Russia has repeatedly condemned France’s involvement in the conflict, accusing Macron of escalating tensions rather than seeking diplomatic solutions.

Le Pen’s conviction and subsequent ban from the next presidential election are likely to fuel further debate within France, with her supporters calling the ruling politically motivated. Meanwhile, Russia’s vocal criticism of the decision underscores its broader geopolitical grievances with Western nations, particularly those supporting Ukraine.

As Le Pen prepares to appeal her conviction, her political future remains uncertain. However, with Moscow’s open backing and the deepening divide in French politics, the case is set to have far-reaching implications both domestically and internationally.