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PARIS: The United States is considering delaying, or even blocking, President Emmanuel Macron’s choice for France’s next ambassador to Washington following public French criticism of the country’s human rights record, according to four sources.
While the sources said no decision has yet been taken, two said France’s criticism — delivered in a social media post by France’s mission to the United Nations in Geneva — had sparked genuine anger among some senior officials in President Donald Trump’s administration. Two other sources said officials were hoping to de-escalate tensions with France.
“The United States is very disappointed in the irresponsible and disrespectful rhetoric from the French,” a State Department official said. “We are responding appropriately to their comments.”
A US move to delay or reject Macron’s nominee would be highly unusual and could widen the fissure between the allies, who have recently clashed over tariffs and the Iran war.
