France Summons U.S. Ambassador After Controversial Remarks on Right-Wing Activist's Death

France announced that it will summon U.S. Ambassador Charles Kushner following controversial remarks regarding the death of right-wing extremist activist Kantan Durank, which were deemed an interference in French internal affairs, according to French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot.

U.S. Ambassador's Remarks

Kushner accused Paris of failing to take adequate measures to combat rising anti-Semitism, linking French criticism of Israel and steps towards recognizing a Palestinian state to a danger to the lives of Jews in France.
The message published by Kushner was directed at French President Emmanuel Macron through U.S. media, and the French government considered it an unacceptable foreign interference in a national issue.

Demonstrations and Protests

The city of Lyon witnessed a demonstration attended by more than three thousand people demanding "justice" for the right-wing activist who was killed by far-left elements on February 12.
The demonstration took place under tight security measures, with the appearance of far-right symbols and speeches against "leftist extremism" and "anti-fascist violence".

Violations and Disturbing Events

French authorities recorded Nazi salutes and racist insults during the demonstration in videos circulated on social media.
Seven young men suspected of involvement in the violent assault on the activist were convicted, with charges including premeditated murder and complicity.

French Government's Position

French President Emmanuel Macron called for "calm," emphasizing that "no violence is legitimate in the republic" and "there is no place for militias, regardless of their source."
Macron announced a forthcoming government meeting to assess violent working groups linked to political parties, as a step to control rising tensions after the incident.

This summons reflects the French government's sensitivity to external interventions in its internal affairs, especially amidst rising political divisions and tensions between right-wing and left-wing factions.