US grant for MAGA-aligned groups in Europe excludes French applicants over election fears
The decision reflects a recognition in Washington that funding MAGA-aligned organizations in France could jeopardize extensive economic ties between the two countries.
A US government grant program aimed at bolstering democratic values across Europe will exclude French organizations following concerns over possible foreign interference in the upcoming presidential election. The exclusion decision has been communicated to French officials, reflecting Washington's cautionary stance regarding potential conflicts with a proposed French law aimed at curbing online disinformation and safeguarding democratic processes.
Despite the July 13 deadline for the US State Department's Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor grant program, French applicants are now barred from receiving funds due to worries about the impact on economic ties. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot expressed anger on social media, warning against any foreign interference in their electoral processes.
Although the deadline has passed, French groups may relocate to Brussels to seek funding for future endeavors. The US, France's top foreign investor, continues to face diplomatic tensions, including issues related to tariffs and a recent court ruling barring French President Marine Le Pen from office.
Written by urgent.news from Jerusalem Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
