PARIS — France has escalated a diplomatic dispute with the United States, announcing that U.S. Ambassador Charles Kushner will no longer have access to French government officials until he responds to a summons. The move comes after Kushner did not attend a scheduled meeting Monday evening with French authorities.
Diplomatic Fallout
French authorities summoned Ambassador Kushner, the father of Jared Kushner, son-in-law and advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump, to discuss comments made by the Trump administration regarding the death of Quentin Deranque, a 23-year-vintage far-right activist. The State Department’s Counterterrorism Bureau posted on X that “violent radical leftism” played a role in Deranque’s death, and the U.S. Embassy in Paris reposted the statement in French.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot called Kushner’s absence from the meeting a “surprise” and a breach of diplomatic protocol. He stated that the ambassador’s ability to fulfill his duties will be affected as a result.
“It will, naturally, affect his capacity to exercise his mission in our country,” Barrot said Tuesday, speaking to France Info. He added that Kushner “is bringing difficulties on himself” by failing to engage with the French government.
Potential Next Steps
Barrot indicated that Kushner will regain access to French government officials once he provides an explanation for not attending the scheduled meeting. The situation could de-escalate if Ambassador Kushner responds to the summons and engages in dialogue with French officials. However, if the ambassador does not comply, the strained relationship between the two countries could persist, potentially impacting future diplomatic efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Charles Kushner?
Charles Kushner is the U.S. Ambassador to France and the father of Jared Kushner, who is the son-in-law and advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Why was Ambassador Kushner summoned by French authorities?
Ambassador Kushner was summoned to discuss comments made by the Trump administration regarding the death of Quentin Deranque, a far-right activist in France.
What is the current status of Ambassador Kushner’s access to French officials?
Currently, Ambassador Kushner does not have access to French government ministers until he responds to the summons and provides an explanation for not attending the scheduled meeting.
As diplomatic tensions rise between France and the United States, what impact might this situation have on the broader transatlantic relationship?
