Trump Says He Warned Macron Over Immigration
US President Donald Trump has claimed that he warned French President Emmanuel Macron against allowing large-scale immigration years before the latest wave of violent protests in France. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Monday, October 19, 2026, Trump blamed immigration policies for the unrest and urged French authorities to tighten border controls, despite the demonstrations originating from concerns over education and rising living costs.
Trump Says He Warned Macron About Immigration
Trump claimed he had advised Macron during his first presidential term to strengthen France’s borders, warning that unrestricted immigration could create serious problems.
The American president argued that France’s current difficulties reflected the consequences of failing to address immigration and integration.
He also claimed that Paris could soon become predominantly Muslim, although he provided no demographic evidence to support that prediction.
Trump maintained that immigration, rather than education or economic grievances, was responsible for the violence witnessed across French cities.
France Protests Trigger Widespread Violence
The unrest began with student demonstrations demanding improvements in educational facilities, additional teachers and better public services.
Protests subsequently expanded to include concerns about inflation, wages and the rising cost of living.
Violence erupted in several cities, including Paris and Marseille, with rioters setting vehicles alight, damaging public buildings and looting businesses.
French authorities reported more than 2,400 arrests following the disturbances.
President Macron condemned the violence and promised legal action against those responsible while acknowledging the right to peaceful demonstrations.
Trump and JD Vance Criticise European Immigration Policies
US Vice President JD Vance also criticised European immigration policies, arguing that governments had failed to adequately address integration challenges.
Trump called on France to close its borders and take stronger measures to restore public order.
However, French protest organisers have primarily identified economic hardship and deteriorating public services as the reasons behind their demonstrations.
The developments have intensified political debate in France ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with immigration, public security and economic policy emerging as prominent issues.
