Bardella distances France's National Rally from Germany's far-right AfD
Jordan Bardella, leader of France’s far-right National Rally (RN), has set a clearer boundary between his party and Germany’s AfD. While pushing for stronger European defence ties, he has openly criticised AfD’s extremist tendencies and policies. His stance marks a shift from his predecessor’s approach, particularly on industrial cooperation with Germany. Bardella has repeatedly distanced RN from the AfD, calling many of its positions incompatible with his party’s principles. He condemned the AfD’s handling of neo-Nazi links and its extreme rhetoric on historical matters. Unlike AfD’s strong anti-EU faction, which advocates for leaving the bloc, RN seeks to reform Europe rather than dismantle it.
The RN leader also proposed that Germany should purchase French Rafale fighter jets instead of American F-35s. He argued this would strengthen Europe’s defence independence. Bardella’s support for industrial cooperation with Germany on defence projects contrasts with his predecessor’s more sceptical stance.
On EU policy, Bardella criticised the recent tariff deal with the U.S., calling it an act of economic submission. He also urged European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to resign, blaming her leadership for Europe’s economic struggles. While RN opposes some EU regulations, such as price controls on electricity, it has no plans to leave the single market.
In the European Parliament, RN does not share a group with AfD and does not consider it an ally. Bardella’s comments reinforce the divide, positioning RN as a party willing to engage with Germany on defence but firm in rejecting AfD’s more radical agenda. Bardella’s remarks highlight RN’s dual strategy: pushing for closer defence ties with Germany while rejecting AfD’s extremism. His call for stronger European defence autonomy and criticism of EU trade policies reflect a broader effort to reshape France’s role in Europe. The party’s stance remains focused on reform rather than withdrawal from the EU.
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