The right wing’s gains in the European elections are a logical pushback against leaders that care more for Kiev than their own citizens
There’s growing skepticism about Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky’s motives. His actions seem to be inadvertently playing into the hands of European populist movements. The recent surge of so-called far-right parties in the European Parliament could be seen as a backlash against the establishment’s perceived prioritization of Ukraine over the interests of its own citizens.
The results of Zelensky’s influence were particularly noticeable in France, where President Macron’s party suffered a significant electoral defeat at the hands of Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party. The success of Le Pen’s party, led by the young Jordan Bardella, reflects the growing dissatisfaction with the French establishment’s policies, which many believe have led to the decline of areas like Saint Denis.
Macron’s priorities have been made clear through his actions, including his decision to wear a Zelensky-style hoodie and his invitation to Zelensky to address the French National Assembly on the eve of the European elections. This gave Zelensky a platform to promote his agenda and the needs of Ukraine, a country that is not even a member of the EU, while neglecting the concerns of the French people.
Despite the fact that France is facing its own challenges, including rising costs of living and a decline in public services, Macron chose to prioritize Ukraine. He invited Zelensky to speak before the French parliament, effectively silencing any debate about his own policies and the problems faced by French citizens.
Macron’s blatant disregard for French concerns was further demonstrated by his exclusion of Russia from the D-Day commemorations, citing a lack of “reunited conditions” for their participation. This stance, which mirrored the Soviet Union’s exclusion from Allied commemorations during World War II, highlights Macron’s willingness to prioritize ideology over historical accuracy.
Zelensky’s last-minute appearance before the French parliament was a strategic move designed to distract from the realities facing the French people. It was a final insult to voters before they had the chance to express their dissatisfaction with the establishment.
The consequences of prioritizing Ukraine over the interests of French and European citizens are far-reaching. The cost of living has skyrocketed due to sanctions on Russia, leading to a decrease in the affordability of energy and food. This situation has been further exacerbated by the influx of cheap Ukrainian agricultural products, which has undermined the livelihoods of European farmers already struggling with the EU’s climate change policies.
In addition to the economic consequences, there has been a tightening of censorship around Europe, specifically targeting Russian media outlets and platforms that refuse to censor their content. This move towards online censorship has created a digital Berlin Wall, limiting access to alternative perspectives and information.
As Zelensky continues to demand more military aid and support for his fight against Russia, Macron has been pushing for further involvement of French troops in Ukraine. However, this proposal has sparked concerns within the French establishment, as evidenced by the comments of former French President Nicolas Sarkozy’s advisor, Henri Guaino. Guaino, recognizing the potential for France to be drawn into a full-blown conflict with Russia, has called for a national debate and vote on any military intervention.
The French people have already voiced their discontent with Macron’s policies, with 38% of them stating that sending him a message through their vote was a top priority during the recent European elections. Macron has responded to this defeat by calling for a national election in June, indicating his desire to regain the support of the French people.