France has summoned US Ambassador to France, Charles Kushner, following his remarks about the murder of a French far-right activist, Quentin Deranque. This incident occurred during a violent confrontation at a demonstration in Lyon, where at least six other people were involved. The French Foreign Minister, Jean-Noel Barrot, announced the summoning of the ambassador on Sunday, citing the need to address the seriousness of the comments made by the US diplomat regarding the tragic event and its implications on public safety and international diplomacy.

Quentin Deranque was killed in a clash related to a protest against a left-wing politician from the LFI (La France Insoumise) party, with blame for the violence being directed towards far-left groups. Following the incident, the US embassy in France expressed their close monitoring of the situation and voiced concerns through their office for counter-terrorism, suggesting that violent radicalism from the left is on the rise and poses a threat to public safety. This position has sparked a debate on the increasing polarization and violence in political protests within France.

The incident highlights the delicate nature of diplomatic relations, particularly in contexts of political violence that can exacerbate tensions between countries, especially when statements from foreign diplomats are perceived as inflammatory. The French government's response reflects the seriousness with which it views the implications of the incident, both for its internal security and its international relations, particularly with the United States as both nations navigate their stances on domestic extremism and political discourse.