Early General Election Evaluations from French President Emmanuel Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron spoke to French television for the first time since the snap general elections. Appearing as a guest on a joint broadcast by France 2 and Radio France, shot outdoors near the Eiffel Tower, Macron assessed the impact of the election results on the country’s politics.
Macron stated that he decided to dissolve the National Assembly on June 9 on the grounds that it no longer adequately reflected French society. He also assessed the success of the far-right National Rally (RN) party, which won the most seats in the National Assembly.
Stressing that no party achieved a clear victory in the elections, Macron stated that the government lost the elections and that concessions had to be made. Stating that the New Popular Front could not reach an absolute majority, Macron announced that the government would be formed in mid-August.
Macron stated that he will not resign and will fully fulfill the duty given to him by the French. Arguing that the rise of the far-right is not specific to France, Macron also made some statements regarding the Olympic Games.
Emmanuel Macron also shared his views on the Russia-Ukraine War and Israel’s attacks on Gaza. Defending Israel’s right to defend itself, Macron stated that he found the situation in Gaza and the occupied territories unacceptable.
Emmanuel Macron’s Olympics and Politics Statements
- Macron responded to criticism that double standards were applied between Russian and Israeli athletes within the scope of the Olympic Games. He made important statements on the Russia-Ukraine War and Israel’s attacks on Gaza.
- Advocating that Israeli athletes participate in competitions with their own flag, Macron stated that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would be treated like a prime minister if he came to Paris for the Olympics.
- Macron condemned Israel’s attacks on Gaza and stressed that they were committed to the two-state solution. He also confirmed that the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games would be held on July 26 at the Seine River.
