Marine Le Pen and Jordan Bardella, leaders of France’s far-right National Rally party, have denounced Russia’s attempts to influence French policy through threats. Their comments come in response to the Russian government’s takeover of French companies operating in Russia, including the Auchan retail group. In a statement released on Saturday, September 19, Le Pen and Bardella emphasized that Russia cannot expect France to be swayed by intimidation, threats, or psychological pressure. They stressed that no form of provocation or covert action could lead France to support Russia’s military objectives in Ukraine. The statement followed a meeting at the Elysée Palace, where French President Emmanuel Macron reportedly briefed political leaders on the country’s current geopolitical challenges. Jordan Bardella attended the meeting, which underscores the National Rally’s growing involvement in national security and foreign policy discussions. Despite the party’s strong anti-immigration stance and skepticism toward European Union institutions, it has sought to position itself as a firm critic of Russian aggression, distancing itself from the policies of Russian President Vladimir Putin. The National Rally leaders also highlighted the importance of democratic debate regarding France’s financial support for Ukraine. They argued that discussions about the amount and conditions of aid should be open and transparent. However, they made it clear that foreign pressure—particularly from Russia—should not be considered a valid basis for policy decisions. This stance reflects the party’s broader strategy of emphasizing national sovereignty and rejecting external interference in French affairs. The National Rally has long positioned itself as a critical voice on international issues, often challenging the mainstream political consensus. By condemning Russian actions and asserting France’s independence, the party is attempting to align itself with national security concerns while maintaining its distinct political identity. Their comments come at a time of heightened tension between France and Russia, as European countries grapple with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its far-reaching consequences.