France will summon US envoy Charles Kushner over comments on activist’s death
South China Morning Post
by Associated PressFebruary 22, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
France has decided to summon US Ambassador Charles Kushner over comments made by the Trump administration regarding the death of far-right activist Quentin Deranque. The move comes after the State Department’s Counterterrorism Bureau shared social media posts claiming that Deranque was killed by left-wing militants, as reportedly confirmed by the French Interior Minister. This statement has sparked outrage in France, where officials view it as an inappropriate interference in domestic affairs and a mischaracterization of the situation.
The incident highlights growing tensions between the US and France over their differing approaches to far-right movements. While the Trump administration appears to be aligning with certain far-right groups, France remains committed to combating all forms of extremism. The death of Deranque, who was known for his ties to extremist circles, has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his killing, which occurred in September 2019. French officials have yet to confirm the involvement of left-wing militants, casting doubt on the State Department’s claims.
This diplomatic row underscores the delicate balance nations must strike when addressing domestic extremism and foreign interference. For readers interested in global politics, it sheds light on how international relations can be strained by differing ideological stances. France’s decision to challenge the US envoy signals its determination to protect its sovereignty and counter what it perceives as biased allegations. The situation will likely continue to evolve, with implications for US-French relations and the broader fight against terrorism worldwide.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/22/2026