What's happened
Marine Le Pen, leader of France's far-right National Rally, is on trial for allegedly embezzling EU funds. The nine-week trial could jeopardize her political future as she prepares for a potential presidential run in 2027. The case involves accusations of using parliamentary funds for party-related work from 2004 to 2016.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Independent, Le Pen has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that her party did not violate EU regulations. The New York Times highlights that a conviction could hinder her efforts to normalize the National Rally's image. Al Jazeera notes that the trial involves 26 defendants, including Le Pen's father, Jean-Marie, who is too frail to stand trial. The Guardian emphasizes the potential political ramifications, suggesting that the trial could overshadow the party's recent electoral successes.
How we got here
The trial stems from investigations that began nearly a decade ago, focusing on claims that Le Pen and her party misused EU funds intended for parliamentary assistants. If convicted, she could face up to 10 years in prison and be barred from public office.
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