In an interview on Sunday, September 20, the vice-president of the National Rally and mayor of Perpignan, in the Pyrénées-Orientales region, reaffirmed his party's stance on reducing the value-added tax (VAT) on fuel. The National Rally is pushing for a temporary reduction of the VAT from 20 percent to 5.5 percent, aiming to ease the financial burden on French citizens amid rising fuel prices. This policy, which has been debated in political circles, is seen by the party as a necessary measure to support households and businesses struggling with inflation. The official also addressed his earlier comments on Ukraine, which had sparked controversy. He had previously suggested that if Marine Le Pen were elected president in 2027, France might consider reducing aid to Ukraine, a statement that drew sharp criticism from both domestic and international observers. During the interview, he revisited this position, offering a more nuanced perspective without fully retracting his initial remarks. He emphasized the importance of strategic considerations in foreign policy, though he did not clarify whether the stance would change if Le Pen were to win the presidency. The interview comes at a time of heightened political and economic uncertainty in France. The National Rally continues to push for policies that reflect its broader agenda of economic nationalism and skepticism toward international commitments. Meanwhile, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains a central issue in European politics, with France playing a significant role in providing military and humanitarian support to Ukraine. The official's comments highlight the complex interplay between domestic economic pressures and international responsibilities. As the National Rally seeks to influence government policy, its positions on both economic and foreign affairs will remain under close scrutiny. The party's ability to balance these issues will be crucial in shaping its political strategy moving forward.