Trump Defends Le Pen Amid Criticism of Conviction

U.S. President Donald Trump has come to the defense of French far-right leader Marine Le Pen, who was recently sentenced to four years in prison and banned from running for office for misappropriating EU funds. Trump labeled the legal actions against Le Pen as a 'witch hunt' orchestrated by European leftists aimed at silencing political opposition through 'lawfare.' He expressed admiration for Le Pen's resilience and drew parallels between her situation and his own legal battles, alleging that both are examples of politically motivated persecution. French Prime Minister Francois Bayrou criticized Trump's interference in France's internal matters, highlighting concerns about foreign influence in national judicial processes. The ruling against Le Pen has sparked debates regarding democracy in France, with other leaders like Italy's Giorgia Meloni also condemning the conviction as detrimental to political representation. Despite the legal verdict, Le Pen plans to appeal the decision, which has raised questions about her eligibility for the upcoming 2027 presidential election.