French Embassy Cuts Ties with U. S. Envoy Over Missed Meeting

The United States lost a key diplomatic link when its ambassador to Paris, Charles Kushner, failed to attend a crucial meeting with French officials. The session was meant to discuss the U.S. response to the death of far‑right activist Quentin Deranque, who was killed during a protest in Lyon.

Immediate Consequences

• French Foreign Ministry’s Response:
  The French foreign ministry swiftly barred Kushner from direct contact with government ministers, citing a breach of diplomatic protocol.

• Prior No‑Show:
  In August, Kushner had again missed a meeting and sent a senior embassy officer instead. He followed this with an open letter to President Emmanuel Macron, criticizing France’s handling of rising antisemitism.

French Stance

French Foreign Minister Jean‑Noël Barrot emphasized that Kushner must still engage with ministry officials, but cannot meet ministers directly until trust is rebuilt. The decision underscores France’s aim to preserve a 250‑year partnership while ensuring diplomatic responsibilities are met.

Broader Context

• Deranque’s Death:
  Six men have been charged. The case has highlighted tensions between left‑wing and far‑right groups in France.

• U.S. Counterterrorism Concerns:
  The State Department’s Counterterrorism Bureau has noted a rise in violent radical leftism and called for justice against those responsible.

• Italy’s Reaction:
  Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the incident as a wound for all of Europe. France rejected any political exploitation of the tragedy.

Kushner’s Controversial Background

• 2005 conviction on tax evasion and witness tampering.
• Pardoned by former President Donald Trump in 2020, after which he donated a million dollars to Trump’s campaign.

These events illustrate the complex interplay of personal, political, and diplomatic factors shaping international relations today.