Marine Le Pen, a leading candidate in France's presidential race and member of the far-right National Rally (RN), has announced plans to stop financial support for Ukraine and significantly cut France's contributions to the European Union (EU) budget if she takes office.
In an interview with the Financial Times on October 14, Le Pen stated, "France is in an extremely dangerous situation today," adding, "We can no longer provide financial support to Ukraine." She indicated that she would cease bilateral financial aid to Ukraine within six months of taking office, although she suggested that training for Ukrainian forces and some operational support might continue. Le Pen also expressed opposition to any additional EU support that would increase France's financial burden.
The National Rally, led by Le Pen, is known for its anti-immigration stance and prioritization of national interests. To address France's financial difficulties, Le Pen plans to reduce foreign spending and reform the EU's executive powers, returning authority to member states.
Currently, France's national debt stands at approximately 119% of its gross domestic product (GDP), raising concerns about fiscal sustainability as the cost of government bonds rises.
On October 6, Le Pen unveiled a plan to increase annual net savings by €140 billion (about $211 billion) by 2032 through cuts in public spending. She also aims to reduce France's EU contributions by €11 billion (approximately $17 billion) by 2027, with further cuts planned thereafter. Le Pen stated that she intends to not only reduce the EU budget but also diminish the powers of the EU Commission to enhance the autonomy of member states.
However, any reduction in EU contributions cannot be unilaterally decided by France. Changing the EU budget and contribution structure requires negotiations among member states, which is likely to lead to conflicts. Le Pen acknowledged, "I know there will be difficult debates, even power struggles, but we are determined and confident that we can achieve this."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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