France's Macron in hot water over jet ski picture
President Emmanuel Macron found himself in hot water Friday after he was pictured riding a jet ski on the Riviera, fuelling opposition claims that he is disconnected from ordinary people grappling with heatwaves and wildfires.
President Emmanuel Macron faced criticism after a photo of him jet skiing on the Riviera, published by Paris Match magazine, was released. The 48-year-old French leader was vacationing at the Bregancon Fort, his presidential retreat, during France's August summer break. Wearing a life vest that showcased his muscular arms, Macron appeared sporty as he engaged in water sports such as foil surfing, according to the magazine.
This comes during a summer marked by heatwaves and deadly wildfires in France, drawing accusations that Macron is out of touch with ordinary citizens. Opposition parties, including the Greens and Socialist party, lambasted Macron for enjoying a vacation while the country suffered through an "apocalyptic summer" of fires and extreme heat.
Socialist leader Olivier Faure suggested Macron's actions sent the wrong message, arguing that the president should have been helping during the crisis instead of "having fun on a jet ski in Bregancon."
Written by urgent.news from The Local France's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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