French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot summoned US Ambassador Charles Kushner for an explanation regarding his failure to attend an official meeting at the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This incident follows the re-publication by the US embassy in Paris of remarks from the Trump administration concerning the death of a far-right activist in France, which sparked controversy. Barrot expressed surprise at Kushner's absence, emphasizing the importance of diplomatic norms and the obligation of representatives to respond to official summons.

Following Kushner's failure to attend the meeting, Barrot announced that the US ambassador would no longer be allowed to meet with French government ministers. He asserted that representing the United States in France carries with it the responsibility to adhere to diplomatic customs. Barrot's comments highlight the deteriorating relationship between the US and France, especially in diplomatic matter, indicating that such actions could further strain ongoing discussions between the two countries.

This diplomatic scandal comes at a sensitive time in international relations, as the US and several European nations navigate complex issues such as security, trade, and political alignment. The refusal to meet may have implications beyond protocol, possibly affecting the US's ability to advocate for its interests in France, as well as complicating France's approach to US policies under the current administration. Both nations will need to reconsider how to mend ties and prevent the escalation of diplomatic tensions in the future.