Article:

Negotiations between France's far-right parties for a potential alliance in the upcoming snap election campaign have abruptly ended within 24 hours of their initiation. Marine Le Pen's National Rally (RN), which achieved a significant victory over President Emmanuel Macron's party in the recent European elections, had been in discussions with Reconquest, the party founded and led by far-right figure Eric Zemmour.

The breakdown in talks was confirmed by Marion Maréchal, a prominent figure in the Reconquest party. Maréchal expressed disappointment with the outcome, stating that the cessation of dialogue was a setback for France. The discussions came to a halt after a meeting between Le Pen and Maréchal on Monday.

Maréchal, in a statement, accused Jordan Bardella, President of the National Rally, of changing positions, claiming that the RN now refuses the concept of an alliance. Bardella's shift in stance, according to Maréchal, was attributed to the RN's desire to avoid association with Zemmour.

Eric Zemmour, a former journalist and media personality, has faced multiple convictions for inciting hatred and racism. He entered the political arena during the 2022 presidential election, garnering 7 percent of the vote. Zemmour has frequently criticized Le Pen, accusing her of being too lenient on issues such as Islam in French society. However, his presence as a candidate further right than Le Pen appeared to have aided in softening her image and advancing her party's acceptance in the public.

The failed collaboration between the National Rally and Reconquest reflects the challenges faced by far-right parties in finding common ground and adopting acceptable positions ahead of the snap election campaign. The outcome reiterates the divide within the far-right political landscape in France.

With the election approaching, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the electoral prospects of Le Pen's National Rally and other far-right parties, as they navigate their paths forward in pursuit of political influence.