France Summons U.S. Ambassador Over Comments on Activist’s Killing

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by Mark Landler

February 23, 2026

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The French government has summoned the U.S. Ambassador to Paris, Charles Kushner, in response to comments made by the State Department regarding the killing of Quentin Deranque, a 23-year-old right-wing activist who was beaten to death in Lyon. The State Department linked his death to "violent radical leftism," a statement that sparked tensions with French officials. This incident has heightened diplomatic friction between the two nations, particularly given President Trump’s broader strategy of supporting Europe’s far-right groups through his administration’s National Security Strategy. The death of Deranque occurred during clashes between far-left and far-right supporters at a university conference on the Middle East. The State Department’s social media post指责ing the far left for the violence has been seen as an overreach, as it not only criticized the radicals but also drew attention to internal French affairs. This comes amid rising tensions between the U.S., under Trump, and France, which views such statements as interference in its domestic politics. Kushner’s summons marks the second time he has faced issues with French authorities since taking office in July 2025. Previously, he was called in after accusing France of not doing enough to combat antisemitism. This latest incident underscores a pattern of diplomatic strain, with the U.S. frequently taking stances that align with Europe’s far-right movements, including Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who has also condemned the violence. The case highlights broader concerns about rising radicalism in France and the potential for further polarization between far-left and far-right factions. It also raises questions about the role of external actors like the U.S. in European domestic politics, a sensitive issue that could strain transatlantic relations. The situation is particularly significant as it reflects both the Trump administration’s strategy to bolster Europe’s patriotic parties and France’s efforts to maintain its stance on sovereignty and internal security. This diplomatic flare-up matters because it sheds light on the growing ideological divide within Europe and the external influences shaping these dynamics.

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/23/2026