RismadarVoice Reporters
September 10, 2026
A United States government grant programme supporting organisations aligned with President Donald Trump’s priorities in Europe will exclude French applicants amid concerns over possible foreign interference ahead of France’s presidential election, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The decision has reportedly been communicated to French officials and reflects concerns in Washington that funding groups linked to the MAGA movement in France could damage diplomatic and economic relations between the two countries.
The US State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights and Labour (DRL) programme offers grants ranging from $1 million to $3 million to organisations working on issues including democratic resilience, rule of law, freedom of speech, press freedom and human rights in Europe.
The programme also identifies areas such as national sovereignty, migration, censorship and legal challenges as possible areas of focus.
France, which is preparing for a presidential election scheduled for next year, has raised concerns over potential foreign influence in its political process, particularly amid the growing influence of far-right parties.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot previously warned that France and European countries would not tolerate attempts at foreign interference in their electoral systems.
A French applicant who sought funding for an organisation focused on anti-censorship and free speech issues said they were informed that French groups would not be considered because of interference concerns.
The applicant said US officials were worried that American-funded activities could conflict with proposed French legislation aimed at strengthening penalties for online disinformation and foreign interference.
A US State Department spokesperson declined to confirm whether French organisations had been excluded, saying funding decisions were still under review and that private diplomatic discussions would not be disclosed.
The development comes as relations between Washington and Paris face increased tensions over issues including trade disputes, the Iran conflict and European security concerns.
Despite diplomatic disagreements, the United States remains one of France’s largest economic partners, with significant investment and trade links between both countries.
Sources said some US officials had expressed concern that a tougher approach towards France could affect American businesses operating in the country.
The French government has not publicly commented on the reported exclusion of French applicants from the grant programme.
