PARIS: US President Donald Trump has blamed immigration for the protests and violence in France, urging European countries to tighten border controls and take strict action against foreign nationals involved in criminal activities. He warned that Europe could face serious consequences if it failed to control illegal immigration and strengthen border security.
Speaking to reporters outside the White House, Trump criticised French President Emmanuel Macron’s immigration policies, claiming that France had made a major mistake by allowing people from across the world to enter the country. He said he had previously advised Macron to close France’s borders to prevent further immigration.
Trump also made a controversial claim that Paris would soon become a Muslim city, adding to the political debate over immigration, national identity and religious diversity in Europe.
Trump links unrest to immigration
Rejecting explanations that attribute the unrest to other social or economic factors, Trump argued that immigration was at the root of France’s problems. He accused European governments of failing to exercise adequate control over their borders and called for tougher immigration policies.
He further warned that Europe’s future could be at risk if countries failed to secure their borders and deport foreign nationals involved in criminal activities, subject to applicable laws and procedures.
Protests and violence fuel political debate
Protests have taken place in Paris and other French cities amid public concerns over rising prices and the cost of living. Some demonstrations have reportedly turned violent, bringing public order and the government’s response into focus.
However, Trump’s claim that immigration is the principal cause of the unrest has not been independently established. The circumstances surrounding the protests need to be assessed in the context of France’s economic pressures, social concerns and domestic political developments.
Macron’s immigration policy under scrutiny
Trump’s latest remarks have renewed attention on Macron’s approach to immigration and border security. The US president has repeatedly advocated stricter immigration controls and made tackling illegal immigration a central promise of his 2024 presidential election campaign.
His comments on immigration have also drawn criticism from opponents, who have accused him of making misleading claims and fuelling racial and religious anxieties.
The latest exchange highlights the continuing political divide over immigration policy in Europe, where questions of border security, integration, public safety and national identity remain contentious issues.
