The giant European Union flag, erected at the Arc de Triomphe in Paris to commemorate the beginning of France’s EU presidency, was removed after the move was criticized by right-wing French politicians.
Right-wing leader Marine Le Pen said that the “replacement” of the French flag on the monument was an infringement on the country’s identity and threatened to file a complaint with the French Supreme Court of Administrative Cases.
Erik Zemmour, right-wing independent presidential candidate, called the EU flag “outrageous.”
Conservative candidate Valerie Pécresse tweeted: “Lead Europe, but don’t erase French identity.”
European Affairs Minister Clement Bonne denies that the government has succumbed to right-wing pressure and said the EU flag was not permanently displayed on the Arc de Triomphe, its removal was planned.
