French mayors remove EU flags, minister calls it ‘betrayal’

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot has sharply criticised a decision by several mayors aligned with the National Rally to remove European Union flags from town halls and replace them with the French tricolour. He described the move as a ‘betrayal’ of European values and of France’s identity, Politico reported.

He said the EU forms an integral part of French identity and plays a key role in maintaining peace and strengthening Europe’s independence.

The step was taken by newly elected mayors following local elections in which the movement secured 55 additional seats. Some publicly announced their decision on social media, emphasising their preference for French national symbols.

The removal of EU flags is not a new development and has previously been observed in other countries, including Poland.

(mja)