French far-right leader Marine Le Pen endorsed adopting U.S. President Donald Trump's firm approach toward countries unwilling to accept deportees, citing his tactics with Colombia as a model for France's dealings with Algeria.
Le Pen's remarks highlight how Trump's stringent immigration policies could shape European politics. Despite Trump's unpopularity in Europe, shifting sentiments due to increased immigration have made more voters in Europe receptive to his once-radical ideas.
Germany's opposition conservatives recently secured parliamentary approval for a proposal to significantly limit migration, aligning with the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) in a break from tradition.
In line with this rightward shift, France's Conservative Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau has been pushing for increased cooperation with Algeria and Morocco on deportations and combatting drug-related violence.
In a televised interview, Le Pen advocated for a tougher stance on Algeria, mirroring Trump's approach to Colombia. She proposed cutting off money transfers and suspending visas for Algerians and their leaders if they do not comply.
Le Pen commended Trump's decisive actions in office, contrasting it with Retailleau's perceived inaction on immigration issues. The leader's fate may be influenced by a pending corruption ruling on March 31, which could potentially reshape French politics.