French far-right presidential hopeful Jordan Bardella has said his first official trip as president would be to Brussels. He promised a direct confrontation with the European Union over what he calls unfair German influence. His comments have added new tension to the political debate ahead of France’s next presidential election.
Bardella is expected to be the main candidate for the National Rally party in the upcoming race. The election will decide the successor to President Emmanuel Macron, who cannot run again due to term limits. Recent opinion polls show Bardella leading in the first round of voting. Some surveys also suggest he could reach the final runoff stage with a strong chance of winning. His rise has made him a central figure in French politics.
Speaking in an interview with Le Journal du Dimanche, Bardella said his first foreign trip would not follow tradition. Previous French presidents such as Nicolas Sarkozy, François Hollande, and Emmanuel Macron chose Germany for their first visit. This symbolized strong post-war cooperation between France and Germany. Bardella said he would instead travel to Brussels to defend what he called France’s national interests.
He accused the European Union of treating France unfairly in economic decisions. He said the EU has made France act as a “trade adjustment tool” to support other countries, especially Germany. According to him, this has weakened French economic strength. He argued that EU policies often benefit some member states more than others.
Bardella said his goal is not to leave the European Union. His position is different from earlier National Rally leader Marine Le Pen, who once supported France leaving the EU. Instead, Bardella says he wants to change the system from inside. He supports keeping France in the EU but pushing for major reforms. He said France should be able to defend its own priorities while still remaining part of the bloc.
He also outlined his vision for a reformed European Union. He said he wants a strong Europe that can compete globally in areas like artificial intelligence, technology, and space exploration. At the same time, he said each country should keep full control over its national decisions. He emphasized what he calls “national sovereignty” as a key principle of his policy.
Bardella also addressed concerns from France’s business community. Some economic leaders have expressed doubts about the National Rally’s approach to the EU. However, Bardella said many businesses feel the European system creates too much bureaucracy. He argued that excessive rules slow down economic growth and reduce competitiveness. He said reducing regulations would help French companies grow stronger in global markets.
His statements come as France prepares for a highly competitive election season. Political analysts say EU policy is likely to be a major issue in the campaign. Relations between France and Germany are also expected to be a key topic. The two countries have long been seen as the driving force behind the European Union. Any shift in that balance could have wide political and economic effects.
Bardella’s comments signal a potential change in France’s foreign policy direction if he wins office. His approach would mark a clear break from the traditional pro-Germany stance followed by past French leaders. It could also reshape how France engages with EU institutions in Brussels.
Experts say his position reflects a wider rise in nationalist politics across Europe. Several countries have seen growing debate over EU rules, immigration, and national control. Supporters of Bardella say his approach could give France more independence. Critics argue it could weaken European unity at a time of global competition.
As the election approaches, Bardella’s message continues to gain attention. His focus on Brussels and EU reform is expected to remain central in his campaign. Political observers say his stance on Germany and the European Union will be closely watched across Europe in the coming months.
