In February 2026, tensions escalated between France and the United States following remarks by U.S. Ambassador Charles Kushner concerning violence in France. The French government, led by Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot, expressed discontent after Kushner failed to attend a critical meeting aimed at discussing controversial statements made by the State Department. These remarks included claims about a rise in violent left-wing extremism following the death of far-right activist Quentin Deranque, who was killed in a brutal attack linked to political tensions ahead of the upcoming presidential election in France. Deranque's murder, which occurred on February 14, had already ignited a national debate over political violence and extremism in the country. In response to Kushner's absence, Barrot characterized his actions as an apparent failure to understand the responsibilities of his ambassadorship, leading to a request that Kushner no longer have direct access to French government officials.