By Stephen Lendman.
French presidential candidate Le Pen’s far-right agenda warrants plenty of criticism.
Le Pen’s meeting with Putin in Moscow deserves praise, not criticism, despite her political motive for coming.
She hopes her advocacy for improved relations with Russia, along with wanting sanctions she calls “unfair…silly (and) counterproductive” lifted will boost her popularity in the eyes of large numbers of undecided French voters.
First round voting is scheduled for April 23. Polls show Le Pen ahead of her two main rivals, though unlikely to win a May runoff.
Media scoundrels wants her vilified for meeting with a leader Washington and rogue NATO allies consider public enemy No. 1. More on this below.
During their meeting, Putin explained she came at the invitation of Russia’s lower house State Duma.
“We value highly our relations with France and try to maintain good relations with incumbent government and the opposition,” Putin explained.
“I am, of course, aware of the ongoing election campaign in France. In no case do we want to influence the events as they unfold, but we reserve the right to communicate with all representatives of all political forces in France, just like our partners in Europe and the United States are doing.”
“Of course, it would be very interesting to exchange opinions with you on our bilateral relations and the situation in Europe.”
“I know that you represent a European political force that is growing quickly. I am very pleased to see you.”
Le Pen: “Thank you, Mr. President. As you know, I have long been urging the restoration of cultural, economic and strategic ties between Russia and France, which is especially important now when we face a serious terrorist threat.”
“The fight against terrorism can only be truly effective if the largest nations stand side by side and join forces.”
Scoundrel media criticism of Le Pen’s followed her visit. The New York Times said it came “at a time (Putin was) accused of meddling in Western elections through computer hacking and…promot(ing) fake news,” – despite no credible evidence proving spurious accusations.
The Washington Post published an AP report unjustifiably claiming Trump’s triumph “emboldened the Kremlin,” adding:
“Embracing Le Pen is part of (its) efforts to reach out to nationalist and anti-globalist forces to build up its influence in the West and help overcome the strains in relations with the US and the European Union.”
“Le Pen’s anti-immigration and anti-EU platform appeals to the Kremlin.” Vilifying her aims to prevent her chance of becoming France’s next president. Portraying her as a “Putin stooge” may or may not work.
Fox News called her meeting with Putin part of Moscow’s effort to court “far-right parties in Europe in an influence-building campaign (to counter) friction between Russia and the West.”
CNN criticized her anti-EU, anti-NATO, pro-Russia views. “Controversial presidential candidate meets with Putin,” headlined one of its reports.”
Reuters quoted French broadsheet Le Monde, saying Putin “anointed” Le Pen.
London’s Guardian said “a surprise (Putin/Le Pen meeting in Moscow will) likely reignite fears in Europe about Russian support for the European far right.”
Last year, French satirical publication Le Canard Enchaine urged US intelligence agencies to investigate Le Pen’s Russia connections.
She publicly acknowledged receiving a $9.8 million loan from a Russian bank because French ones refused financial help – nothing improper about what she did.
Trump, Le Pen, and other so-called right-wing populist politicians are considered incompatible with “Western values.”
Mainstream parties in Western countries are responsible for endless wars of aggression, crushing neoliberal pain and suffering, along with police state harshness targeting nonbelievers.
Nothing in prospect in America or Europe suggests any change for the better ahead regardless of what parties and leaders govern.