In an interview with German public broadcaster ARD, Chancellor Olaf Scholz expressed his concerns regarding the upcoming French parliamentary election and the possibility of Marine Le Pen's far-right National Rally emerging victorious. While Scholz hoped for the success of parties opposing Le Pen, he acknowledged that the ultimate decision rests with the French people.

The French President, Emmanuel Macron, finds himself in a challenging position leading up to the election, as his party lags behind significantly in the polls. In response to the disappointing defeat his party suffered in the European Parliament election earlier this month, Macron called for a snap election, which is scheduled to have its first round on June 30, followed by a second round on July 7.

The National Rally, known for its anti-immigration stance, is projected to secure the most votes during both rounds of balloting. In the recent EU election, the party garnered 31 percent of the French vote, positioning them as the frontrunners. Should the National Rally emerge victorious, party leader Jordan Bardella is a top candidate to assume the role of prime minister.

Germany's far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party also made significant gains during the EU election, while Chancellor Scholz's ruling coalition faced setbacks. The center-left Social Democrats, who Scholz leads, experienced their worst electoral outcome with a mere 14 percent of the vote. Meanwhile, the AfD secured 16 percent.

As the French election approaches, Chancellor Scholz's concerns over a potential victory by the National Rally highlight the rising influence and appeal of far-right parties across European politics. The outcome of this election, both in France and Germany, will undoubtedly shape the political landscape of the European Union in the coming years.