Macron addresses nation after riots, looting as Trump says ‘France is burning’

US President Donald Trump on Sunday accused French immigration of causing unrest during recent protests and called for stricter migration policies. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump expressed concern that "the immigration of people from an entirely different world, people with hatred in their hearts, has shattered that once great country." He urged France to "close your Borders and take control, before it is too late!"

The remarks follow a series of violent protests in France the previous day, which resulted in significant damage, including the burning of a historic town hall, and led to the arrest of 1,800 people. This has put pressure on President Emmanuel Macron, especially with only six months remaining before elections that could see him replaced.

Vice President JD Vance also weighed in on the issue on Saturday, tweeting that "Western liberals imported the third world into France and other countries in the name of diversity and compassion. They ignored fundamental questions of assimilation and compatibility." Vance expressed his hope that France would address the situation before further damage, such as the burning of landmarks, occurs.

Vance, who is considered a potential presidential candidate in the 2028 election, drew a link between the immigration concerns and the upcoming midterm elections on November 3. He noted that Republicans are not expected to perform well in these elections.