Ahead of the upcoming European elections, French President Emmanuel Macron denounced European nationalists, branding them “hidden Brexiteers” and “bank robbers”.
His remarks come as polling suggests a surge in support for Eurosceptic parties, raising concerns about the future direction of the European Union.
Macron’s sharp criticism aims to galvanize pro-European voters and prevent nationalist forces from gaining ground in the upcoming elections.
As the EU’s future hangs in the balance, voters are left to ponder the question: Are all EU nationalists “hidden Brexiteers”?
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Macron’s scathing comments underscore the high stakes of the June 9 elections, where Eurosceptic nationalists opposed to Brussels’ growing influence are expected to make significant gains at the expense of pro-European parties.
With France’s far-right National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, gaining momentum, Macron’s rhetoric is aimed at rallying his supporters and cautioning voters about the risks posed by nationalist movements.
“I say to Europeans: Wake up. Wake up! They are hidden Brexiteers,” Macron told the Economist, emphasising his belief that all European nationalists share a common thread of opposition to the EU’s values and goals.
“All European nationalists are hidden Brexiteers. It’s all the same lies,” he added.
Continuing his attack, Macron warned that giving power to nationalist parties would be akin to entrusting “the bank to robbers.” He further accused Le Pen of hypocrisy, suggesting that while she reaps the benefits of EU membership, she also seeks to undermine it.
Polling data from France highlights the shifting political landscape, with Le Pen’s National Rally, part of the Identity & Democracy bloc, polling at 32 percent, a significant lead over Macron’s liberal Renew Europe group, which stands at 18 percent.