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EU Warns Trump: Don't Interfere in Elections

12/13/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump should not interfere in European elections, said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
She stressed voters' sovereignty amid his criticisms.
The U.S. National Security Strategy warns of 'civilizational erasure' in Europe and supports far-right parties.
In France, Marine Le Pen, a French politician, faces a five-year ban from office for embezzlement, a ruling some call political persecution.

History

Historical Context

The 2016 Brexit referendum, where 52% of UK voters chose to leave the EU, highlighted vulnerabilities to foreign influence, particularly from Russia. Investigations revealed attempts by the Russian government to sway public opinion in favor of Brexit. Today, concerns persist about foreign interference in elections, as underscored by Ursula von der Leyen's warnings, reflecting ongoing threats to democratic integrity in Europe.

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Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump should not interfere in European elections, said Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission.
She stressed voters' sovereignty amid his criticisms.
The U.S. National Security Strategy warns of 'civilizational erasure' in Europe and supports far-right parties.
In France, Marine Le Pen, a French politician, faces a five-year ban from office for embezzlement, a ruling some call political persecution.

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