France’s Prime Minister, François Bayrou, strongly criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent behavior towards Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a parliamentary debate. Bayrou condemned Trump’s actions in the Oval Office as brutal and aimed at humiliating Zelenskyy to appease Russian President Vladimir Putin. The Prime Minister’s direct remarks diverged from the usual diplomatic language between France and the U.S., with Bayrou highlighting the coercion and threats directed at Zelenskyy. Trump’s statement to Zelenskyy, “Either you find a deal with Putin or we will abandon you,” was particularly condemned by Bayrou, who praised Zelenskyy for standing firm in the face of pressure.

Bayrou emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has placed Europe in significant danger. He described the current crisis as one of the most severe and destabilizing events since World War II. The Prime Minister’s firm stance and support for Ukraine garnered applause from lawmakers in the National Assembly. The incident underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the importance of upholding democratic principles and international alliances in the face of aggression.